The Five Senses of Man

About This Movie

So, 'The Five Senses of Man' from 1913 is an interesting slice of early comedy. It's got this charming nervous energy as the protagonist paces with flowers, waiting for the woman in the window to invite him up. The setup is simple, yet it captures that early 20th-century romantic whimsy pretty well. The pacing feels deliberate, almost languid, as it builds up to their little feast, complete with wine and a big napkin around his neck—there’s something amusingly quaint about their interactions. You can see the roots of situational comedy here, and it’s fascinating to ponder how they might have achieved some of the practical effects, like the flowers and the meal itself, given the era. It’s a look back at the innocence of courtship and everyday life that just doesn’t get made anymore.

This title is a rarity for collectors, often overshadowed by more prominent works from the same era. It has seen limited distribution on home media, primarily in niche silent film collections. Interest is growing among enthusiasts of early cinema, especially those who appreciate the nuances of silent comedy and its cultural context. Keep an eye out for any restored versions, as they tend to surface at film festivals or specialized screenings.