First in War

This Charley Chase short is a semi-sequel to his 1930 short HIGH Cs. Again, Charley is in uniform and dealing with Carlton Griffin and three other soldiers in a barbershop quartet and hijinks.

This time, instead of World War One France, they're trying to capture Luis Alberni, a Latin American revolutionary for whom Chase has written a national anthem. It's not tightly plotted compared to other Chase two-reelers; the musical interludes, comic double takes and brawls take up too much time. Still, with a supporting cast including Billy Gilbert and Jimmy Adams, it's sure to please fans of this highly inventive comedy actor/director.

The story begins with Charley (Charley Chase) trying unsuccessfully to sell a song. However, shortly after, a revolutionary comes to the publishers....looking for someone to write a national anthem for Nicarania. He loves Charley's song and buys it.

Soon you learn that Charley is in the Army and was caught by his commanding officer at the publisher's...instead of in uniform back at the base.. He is taken back to unit and soon they are sent to Nicarania! Once there, he unwittingly becomes part of the revolution!

While I'd never consider this one a classic, it is fun and kind of weird. Plus, it gives you a chance to hear Charley sing...and he had a very nice voice.