Bloomer Smokes Opium

About This Movie

So, 'Bloomer Smokes Opium' is quite the quirky little piece from 1913. It dives into this hallucinatory comedy realm where the practical effects are really the star of the show. The way they play with doubling effects creates a surreal atmosphere that feels almost dream-like—definitely a product of its time. The pacing is a bit erratic, but that just adds to the charm, right? You can’t help but appreciate how it reflects on the more whimsical side of the opium narrative, which was quite prevalent back then. Though we don’t have a known director, the film's artistry speaks volumes about early trick cinema and its experimentation with visuals.

This film is pretty rare, especially in good condition as many copies seem to have been lost over the decades. It's often overlooked in discussions about early cinema but has garnered a niche interest among collectors who appreciate its innovative effects. Some prints exist on 16mm, but blu-ray or digital copies are hard to come by, making it a real treasure for those interested in the trick film genre.