Why Worry? | 1923 | Comedy

Title: Why Worry? | 1923 | Comedy Director: Fred C. Newmeyer, Sam Taylor Studio: Hal Roach Studios Starring: Harold Lloyd, Jobyna Ralston, John Aasen, Wallace Howe, James Mason Based on: Original story by Sam Taylor Release Date: September 16 1923 Runtime: 63 minutes Format: Silent black and white Country: United States Language: Silent with English intertitles Genres: Comedy --- Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction of Harold Van Pelham’s hypochondria 00:10:00 Journey to the island of Paradiso 00:20:00 Arrival and mistaken peace 00:30:00 Revolution and imprisonment 00:45:00 Escape with Colosso 00:55:00 Battle and resolution --- Summary: Why Worry? is a 1923 American silent comedy in which wealthy hypochondriac Harold Van Pelham travels to the tropical island of Paradiso seeking health and rest, accompanied by his nurse and valet. Instead of relaxation, he becomes entangled in a local political revolution, unaware at first of the danger. After being jailed, he befriends a gentle giant named Colosso and together they turn the tide against the rebels. The story blends broad slapstick gags and action with romantic and adventurous moments as Harold discovers his own courage and a renewed sense of well-being by confronting his fears and winning the respect of his companions. --- Background: Why Worry? was one of Harold Lloyd’s major silent feature comedies and the last film he made with producer Hal Roach before moving to independent production. Directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and Sam Taylor, the film is noted for its high-energy physical comedy and inventive gags, including notable sequences involving the towering John Aasen as Colosso. --- Trivia: The film’s setting was originally intended to be Mexico, but was changed to a fictional island to avoid cultural offense. Why Worry? marked the first on-screen pairing of Harold Lloyd with Jobyna Ralston, who became his leading lady in subsequent films. John Aasen, cast as the giant Colosso, was discovered through a nationwide search due to his exceptional height. The film was popular with audiences in 1923 and featured many action-comedy set pieces that contributed to its box office success. --- Public Domain / Rights: Original Release: September 16 1923 Original Studio / Distributor: Hal Roach Studios / Pathé Exchange Copyright Status: Public Domain Renewal: Unknown --- Hashtags: #WhyWorry #HaroldLloyd #1923Film #SilentComedy #ClassicCinema #PublicDomain