The Extra-Quick Lunch

About This Movie

The Extra-Quick Lunch is a fascinating piece from 1918 that showcases the early days of animated shorts. The humor is quite slapstick, and the pacing is frenetic, which keeps you engaged throughout. Mutt's interactions with the customers highlight the absurdity of the restaurant scene, especially when the oxtail soup debacle occurs. It’s interesting to see how animation was used to convey comedy at that time, with a distinct lack of dialogue that relies heavily on visual gags. The practical effects, albeit rudimentary by today’s standards, lend a certain charm that’s hard to replicate. The character animation has a rough quality that feels very raw yet expressive, giving it a unique identity in early animation history.

The Extra-Quick Lunch is a rarity in silent animation, with only a handful of prints known to exist today. Its historical significance lies in its comedic style and the development of animated storytelling. Collectors appreciate its quirky charm and the glimpse it offers into the evolution of animation, making it a notable piece for those interested in the genre's origins.