Presenting the Golden Age of screen comedy as never before, the Encyclopedia of Slapstick collects more than fifty silent short comedies with new musical soundtracks. From the early innovators who redesigned the routines of vaudeville with narrative form to the celebrated masters whose inspired improvisations helped establish the world dominance of American film, this laugh-filled tour features the iconic names of slapstick comedy: Laurel and Hardy, Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle, Buster Keaton, Mack Sennett, Charlie Chaplin, Harold Lloyd, Harry Langdon, Will Rogers, and Ben Turpin.

The films showcased in the Encyclopedia of Slapstick span a diverse range of genres and eras, offering a comprehensive exploration of this eternally appealing art form. The collection begins with "In the Beginning: Film Comedy Pioneers," which delves into the early innovators who paved the way for the slapstick genre. This is followed by "Keystone Tonight!: Mack Sennett Comedies," highlighting the work of the legendary producer and director who helped define the visual style and pacing of silent comedy.

The journey continues with "Sennett in the Twenties," examining the evolution of Sennett's productions during the vibrant decade, and "Funny Girls: Genders and Their Benders," which explores the roles of gender and gender-bending in slapstick. The collection then turns its attention to individual comedy stars, with segments dedicated to "Keaton, Arbuckle and St. John," "Hal Roach's All-Star Comedians," and "Hal Roach: The Lot of Fun."

The Encyclopedia also celebrates the enduring legacy of Charlie Chaplin in "Chaplin and the Music Hall Tradition," before concluding with "The Race Is On" and "Tons of Fun: The Anarchic Fringe," which showcase the diverse and innovative approaches to slapstick comedy that have captivated audiences for generations.

Through this comprehensive collection, the Encyclopedia of Slapstick invites viewers to immerse themselves in the golden age of screen comedy, rediscovering the timeless laughter and physical virtuosity that have made these films enduring classics. Whether you're a devoted fan of slapstick or a newcomer to the genre, this compendium promises to delight and enlighten, offering a fresh perspective on the art of laughter.

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