Disc 4 contains the programs “Hal Roach: The Lot of Fun” and “Chaplin and the Music Hall Tradition.”
7-`Hal Roach: The Lot of Fun.' Laurel and Hardy, Our Gang, Charley Chase, and Snub Pollard. The `Laurel & Hardy Lafftoons' was the only disappointing entry in this set. `Lafftoons' is the only instance in which compiled highlight scenes, rather than a complete film, was presented. Laurel and Hardy are a favorite of mine, but I would have preferred seeing all of `Angora Love,' rather than a short scene from it. Charley Chase is perhaps the most consistently sophisticated comic in this set. Chase uses slapstick to accent characters and situations and push the plot ahead - pretty much the diametric opposition of how it was usually done.
Laurel and Hardy Laugh Toons (1978) is a modern short subject that includes portions of the Laurel and Hardy silents Angora Love (1929), You’re Darn Tootin’ (1928), Liberty (1929) and The Battle of the Century (1927). From a 35mm print, minus intertitles, comprised of very-good to excellent 35mm elements. Orchestral score from the original Laugh Toons soundtrack.
Dogs of War! (1923) with Hal Roach’s Rascals (Our Gang). The gang defends Kelly’s tomato patch against invasion by other neighborhood kids. The buildings and grounds of the Hal Roach Studios (“West Coast Studios”) are clearly seen in the film. From a very-good 35mm print. Synthesizer music by Brian Benison.
Fluttering Hearts (1927) with Charley Chase and Oliver Hardy. Charley helps his girl’s rich father retrieve a compromizing letter from a blackmailing thug (Hardy). From a very-good, slightly sepia-toned, 35mm print that is missing its main titles. Synthesizer music by Brian Benison.
It’s a Gift (1923) with Snub Pollard. Snub is an inventor who develops a gasoline substitute. From an excellent though slightly contrasty 35mm print. Canned orchestral music.
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