How to Start the Day

About This Movie

How to Start the Day is a charming little comedy from 1937 that features Benchley in his element, trying to lay out the perfect morning routine. The film has this light-hearted, almost whimsical tone with a pacing that feels both relaxed and engaging, allowing Benchley’s comedic timing to shine through. It’s a slice-of-life approach that taps into familiar themes of everyday struggles, relatable to anyone who’s ever faced the chaos of morning. The practical effects and simple set designs are interesting for their era, not overly flashy but effective for the humor they’re trying to convey. Benchley’s performance is both earnest and comical, giving it a distinct flavor that makes it stand out among similar shorts from that time.

This short film has had varying availability over the years, with collectors often noting its scarcity in physical formats. It’s an interesting piece for those who appreciate the nuances of comedy in the 1930s, and it occasionally pops up in compilations or retrospective collections. While not exactly mainstream, it has garnered attention among collectors for its unique take on daily life and the performance style of Benchley, making it a curious item for enthusiasts of the genre.