Come Along Do!

Starring: N/A
Directed by: Robert W. Paul
Rating: Not rated
Genre: Short, Comedy
Length: 36 seconds
1898

Times Seen:
Tim: 3

Summary: An elderly man and women eat snacks before heading into an art gallery.

Review:

Tim: Robert W. Paul's Come Along Do! is an interesting film that has an even more interesting story. This is one of (maybe the first) film to use two shots to continue action from one shot to the next in a fictional film. I think I got that right. Unfortunately, the second shot has been completely lost, and only a few stills remain.

The first shot is pretty average, but I suspect it set up the second shot nicely. We see two elderly people sitting on a bench. The shot is nicely set up, as we see them, some plants, and a doorway to the left. There are signs above their heads- the right sign points to the Refreshments counter, which is likely where they are coming from (as they're eating and drinking). The left sign points to the Art Section. I really like how Paul set this up- in a matter of seconds, we can guess pretty well at the story. The couple got some refreshments, and are taking a break before heading into the art gallery.

The man takes an extra long drink from a bottle as two stylish women walk by, and the elderly woman grabs his arm impatiently, probably saying, "Come Along, Do!". It's a nice, early depiction of a nagging woman. The man finishes up, and the two walk towards the art gallery.

Now, it is unfortunate that the section scene has been lost, because from the stills I've seen, it looks really interesting. We're inside the art gallery, and there is art all over the walls. The man is apparently staring at a nude statue. The woman is tugging at him, like saying "Come Along, Do!" again. It felt like the early scene would have set this one up beautifully, and I lament the loss of this second scene.

So, unfortunately, half this short film is lost. Still, it shows some real talent by Robert W. Paul. It's interesting that this is one of the earliest uses of film editing in Great Britain. Even as an incomplete film, this one is definitely worth checking out.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: N/A



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: N/A