This film is part of Free
Fun on the Clothesline
A deft music hall act adapted for film, featuring the only known appearance of pioneer filmmaker Robert Paul
Overview
Two men get tangled up in a housewife’s washing line in this entertaining early film, which recreates a stage 'slack wire' act. It was one of a number of music hall acts adapted for fim by film pioneer RW Paul, and features Harry Lamore, who had developed the act on stage. The man chasing, in top hat and tails, is Robert Paul himself, in what is his only known screen appearance, while the housewife is played by Paul's wife, Ellen.
A nitrate 35mm print that had never been duplicated from the BFI’s collection, listed with a 'given' title, 'Gypsy Camp Drama', turned out to be a lost film by Britain's pre-eminent early filmmaker R.W. Paul. slack-wire played this comic sketch on the music.
Related
Afrika Bambaataa on Afrofuturism (Q&A) Afrika Bambaataa on Afrofuturism (Q&A)
Inside Film 2014 45 mins
Afrika Bambaataa and DJ, musician and filmmaker Don Letts discuss the development of Afrofuturism and its key artists.
Alexandre Desplat (Masterclass) Alexandre Desplat (Masterclass)
Inside Film 2011 33 mins
Over 30 years and 150 projects, the composer shares, with humour and passion, the intricacies of making film music.
Ian Neil (Masterclass) Ian Neil (Masterclass)
Inside Film 2012 74 mins
Neil selected soundtracks for 127 Hours, Shame, Kick Ass, Control and many more. He discusses the job and its complexities, referencing his own work.
Screenwriters' Lecture: Peter Straughan Screenwriters' Lecture: Peter Straughan
Inside Film 2012 mins
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy's adapter reveals his quest for "the poem of the book" and the importance of simplicity: 'Drain the pond to find the fish'.
Gabriel Yared on composing for film Gabriel Yared on composing for film
Inside Film 2013 11 mins
Composer of The Lives of Others, The English Patient and Betty Blue on intimacy and experimentation.
Lois Burwell on movie makeup Lois Burwell on movie makeup
Inside Film 2013 17 mins
Lincoln, Braveheart and Magnolia make-up artist Lois Burwell explains how she created some of her most iconic looks, as part of a BAFTA Masterclass.