Especially among those with less appreciation for the early years of cinema, it is sometimes said that the silent era reflects "simpler entertainment for a simpler time." As an avid cinephile myself, and a huge fan of silent films, I can understand where that sentiment comes from, but even where it's selectively true it is no inherent statement on the abject quality of a piece. As we start to watch this 1922 farce, a send-up generally of 'The Three Musketeers' and specifically of Douglas Fairbanks' earnest adaptation of one year before, I don't think there's much mistaking that it commonly echoes that very notion. In various ways the picture rather exemplifies the film-making and storytelling sensibilities of a developing medium, and in neither capacity does it necessarily bear the sophistication of some of its contemporaries or successors. Yet that tack quite provides the framework in which the frivolity will ensue, and one way or another 'The Three Must-Get-Theres' remains a terrific delight. For those open to the style, it's well worth checking out if you have the chance!
While freely adapting Alexandre Dumas' novel, screen legend Max Linder cheerfully twists most every bit and bob to comedic ends, whether that means playing with characters and their names, toying with the dialogue as imparted in intertitles, or modifying story beats. The latter is the major key, I think, for the relatively uncomplicated method by which the feature is constructed leans heavily on the consideration and execution of individual scenes. The humor relies substantially on simple gags in the scene writing, usually without much follow-through from one scene to the next; there is subtler cleverness, too, but the preponderance of the flick is built on sight gags and physical comedy. There are also the performances of the cast, highly animated with greatly exaggerated facial expressions and body language - maybe beyond even the norm seen throughout much of the silent era - and that straightforward silliness also comes across in Linder's direction at large. For good measure factor in a giddy, cartoonish indifference to matters of illusion versus artifice; we're treated to abundant anachronisms, for example, and slain enemies sit up to speak, offering an unabashed spoof like those Mel Brooks would become famous for many years later.
The conscious phoniness and outright ludicrousness does not mean that 'The Three Must-Get-Theres' is any less well-made, though. Fantastic wit and intelligence shaped the screenplay, and there is outstanding detail all throughout even just in the writing. In his direction Linder maintains high energy all the way, and whether his role in that regard meant broad oversight and shaping a cohesive whole, or orchestrating a single shot to capture the desired effect, I deeply appreciate the mindfulness and skill he illustrates. I dare say there is some artistic shot composition scattered here and there. Even the cinematography has some moments of shining brilliance, and the editing is unexpectedly sharp as it sometimes plays directly into the merriment. The cast is nothing less than a joy as all actors on hand, even the extras, unreservedly embrace the irreverent spirit of the production and commit to all that is asked of them. Not to be counted out, while the title is flush with tomfoolery, the work turned in by those behind the scenes is no joke. The sets, costume design, and hair and makeup are all gorgeous; whether props feed into into the period setting or the anachronistic tendencies, they're all swell. And as much as anything else, the stunts, effects, fight choreography, and otherwise action are plainly excellent. Frivolous as the project is, there is also meaningful adventure at its core.
This may not be the film to change the minds of those who have a harder time engaging with Old Hollywood; on the other hand, as the minutes tick by the comedy reminds more and more of the tried and true goofiness that has become a staple of some of the biggest names of the art form. It may not look like much from the outset, yet when you get down to it 'The Three Must-Get-Theres' is just a classic, a mirthful gem of another era that sought only to entertain, and which over one hundred years later continues to succeed in that goal. Him and haw about the particulars as we will, surely most anyone will find something to love here as the movie's strength only grows over its abbreviated runtime. Ultimately I would stop short of calling it a total must-see, but the result is a lot of fun from start to finish, and if you have the opportunity to watch then I'm pleased to give it my high recommendation!
