While The Adventurer (1917) may not be the strongest of Charlie Chaplin's shorts in terms of plot, characterization, or coherence, but by God, is it a fun romp. Ably supported by the lovely Edna Purviance and the deliciously villainous Eric Campbell, Chaplin gets into all sorts of trouble by the sea and in a seaside resort. The gags come at the viewer nonstop and all are inspired. The whole thing is a breathless bit of fun, effortlessly transitioning from one set-up to the next without ever feeling choppy.
Of course, Chaplin would move on from Mutual after this. I cannot think of a finer finale to that phase of his career.
Of course, Chaplin would move on from Mutual after this. I cannot think of a finer finale to that phase of his career.