This fifth film Chaplin edited, wrote, directed, and starred in seems like two films in one. The first half has Chaplin impersonating a much older, stuffy count who is to marry Edna Purviance. Chaplin and Edna are each other's true love of course. The impersonation goes well until the real count shows up: Count Chloride De Lime! The film bogs down a bit during a meal scene, but Chaplin does have a few sight gags here. Chaplin is found out and tossed out by Edna's father. Everyone meets up in a park where the action typically mimics Chaplin's park comedies for Keystone, including policemen that after Charlie too. Chaplin and Edna have a funny bit on a tree branch before escaping in a car. Chaplin and Edna elope and the chase is on. The last third of the film degenerates into a car chase, which must have been novel in its day. Several other cars can be seen in the background during the driving sequences. All is well in the end, but it's just typical Chaplin we've seen before. Jitney refers to a nickel, I believe, indicating Charlie's lowly status as compared to the count. Warner's director Lloyd Bacon has an appearance as the young butler. *1/2 of 4 stars.
Review of A Jitney Elopement
