The Paperhangers Helper

The Paperhangers Helper from 1925 is a silent comedy film starring Oliver Hardy, Bobby Ray and Hazel Newman. It follows the story of a young man named Bobby who is hired as an apprentice by Mr. Hardy, a successful paperhanger in a small town.

The movie opens with Bobby seeking employment and being hired by Mr. Hardy. Almost immediately, the eager apprentice sets to work, ready to learn all there is to know about paperhanging from the master. However, Bobby's eagerness often leads him to jump head first into situations without taking the proper precautions, leading to a series of mishaps and comical situations throughout the film.

The main plot revolves around Mr. Hardy's latest job - wallpapering the home of a wealthy businessman. However, as the work begins, it becomes apparent that things aren't going to be that easy. Bobby's clumsiness and ineptitude, combined with Mr. Hardy's lack of attention to detail, create a series of issues. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the wealthy businessman's wife becomes attracted to Bobby.

Throughout the film, the trio of characters find themselves in increasingly dire straits as they struggle to complete the job. They must contend with falling off ladders, getting stuck in glue and even a rat that disrupts their work. All the while, the wealthy businessman's wife becomes more enamored with Bobby, leading to hilarious love triangle situations.

As the film progresses, the situation only becomes more complicated. In one memorable scene, Bobby ends up wallpapering himself to the wall, leading to a series of attempts to free him that only make the situation worse. Meanwhile, Mr. Hardy is struggling to manage his apprentice, deal with the businessman's wife and complete the job, all while struggling with his own lack of attention to detail.

The film ultimately culminates in a wild final act in which everything comes to a head. The wealthy businessman arrives home to find his house in shambles, and the ensuing chaos leads to a series of hilarious and acrobatic chase scenes around the house. The characters all have their own agendas as they race to complete the job, save their reputations and win the heart of the wealthy businessman's wife.

Despite its age, The Paperhangers Helper from 1925 is a delightful comedy that still holds up today. Oliver Hardy, who is perhaps best known for his later work with Stan Laurel, is a standout here as the gruff and bumbling paperhanger. Bobby Ray, who is less well-known, is endearing as the hapless apprentice who is always getting into trouble. Hazel Newman also shines as the seductive and mischievous wife of the wealthy businessman.

The film is notable for its physical comedy, which is expertly executed by the actors. From falling off ladders to getting stuck in wallpaper, the trio of characters go through a wide range of acrobatic stunts and pratfalls that are sure to elicit laughs. The film also features some clever visual gags and creative set pieces, including some intricate wallpaper patterns that serve as the backdrop for much of the action.

Overall, The Paperhangers Helper from 1925 is a fun and entertaining film that is sure to delight fans of silent comedy, as well as those who appreciate classic cinema. Despite being nearly 100 years old, the film has a timeless quality to it, and the performances and gags still feel fresh and lively today. If you're in the mood for a lighthearted and charming comedy, this is definitely one to check out.