Huns and Hyphens

About This Movie

So, 'Huns and Hyphens' is a curious little gem from 1918. Directed by someone we don’t even know, it features Larry Semon, who’s more or less playing his usual slapstick role, but with a twist of wartime satire. Picture a bumbling restaurant worker surrounded by Kaiser-loyalists, a bizarre premise that sets the stage for some chaotic, albeit comedic antics. The pacing is pretty erratic, which you might expect from silent films of this era, but it feels intentional, like a whimsical dance of confusion. The practical effects, while rudimentary by today’s standards, have that charming, raw quality that can only come from the silent era. It’s distinctive for its odd mix of humor and a not-so-subtle pro-war message, making it a fascinating watch, if not a masterpiece.

Finding 'Huns and Hyphens' in good condition can be a bit of a challenge, as it hasn’t seen many re-releases since its original run. There’s a certain scarcity to it, which piques collector interest, especially among fans of silent cinema or Larry Semon's work. Many prints are quite worn, so if you come across a decent copy, it's worth considering for your collection, if only for its unusual take on wartime themes and its bizarre setting.