The Cruise of the Jasper B could have been remade as a screwball comedy in the 1930s with no problem. The plot's premise is basic screwball material: crazy rich people get into goofy shenanigans, all ending with a marriage. Rod La Rocque (doing his best Fairbanks impression), descended from a wealthy 18th century pirate, must marry onboard his ancestral ship before 3pm on his 25th birthday or he loses his lavish lifestyle. Mildred Harris loses an inheritance if she has her back washed by her evil step-uncle because the only existing copy of the will bequeathing her the money is printed on her back (don't ask). These two fall in love at first sight and must race against both the evil uncle and time to get to the ship to wed before the clock strikes three.
That synopsis is insane enough, but the complications that ensue are even crazier. A runaway car, art thieves, a vengeful postman, and the United States military all end up antagonizing the lovers on their bizarre quest. The film is only an hour long and moves at a fair clip, but it lacks that special something-- maybe it's that the characters are all fairly simple, though the performances are game. The first act is also a bit slow-going, but once the leads lock eyes, things pick up.
While it's not among the best comedies of the era, this is still a fun romp and worth seeing once. It really does need to be seen to be believed.
That synopsis is insane enough, but the complications that ensue are even crazier. A runaway car, art thieves, a vengeful postman, and the United States military all end up antagonizing the lovers on their bizarre quest. The film is only an hour long and moves at a fair clip, but it lacks that special something-- maybe it's that the characters are all fairly simple, though the performances are game. The first act is also a bit slow-going, but once the leads lock eyes, things pick up.
While it's not among the best comedies of the era, this is still a fun romp and worth seeing once. It really does need to be seen to be believed.
