Cheap One Costs

About This Movie

So, 'Cheap One Costs' is this peculiar little burlesque from 1917 that's been lost to time, which is a shame because I can only imagine its peculiar charm. The atmosphere likely straddles that line between comedy and drama, typical of the period, but you can sense it had a certain playful irreverence in its pacing. The themes probably poke fun at the societal norms of the time, wrapped in slapstick humor. It’s the kind of film where practical effects would have added an interesting layer, making it distinct despite its short runtime. The performances might have leaned heavily on physical comedy, which was all the rage back then, and it’s a wonder how they managed to convey so much with so little left to see today.

This short film, directed by an unknown filmmaker, has eluded preservation efforts and is now considered lost, making it a curious entry in film history. Its scarcity adds an intriguing layer to its allure for collectors, who often seek out films that reflect the early 20th-century burlesque tradition. While no known prints exist today, the film's title and genre suggest content that might resonate with those interested in the evolution of comedy and silent films.