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THE ITALIAN STRAW HAT

Un Chapeau de Paille d'Italie

Rene Clair | 1928 | 108 MINS
France | Subtitles
The amazing John Sweeney on piano brings to life Rene Clair’s delicious satire made in 1927.

In Detail

A horse sparks off a bizarre and humorous chain of events when he eats a hat in this silent satire of the petit bourgeoisie of the 20s.

Those who can appreciate comedy that skewers and at the same time celebrates social mores. that relies on visual humour rather than jokes, and that doesn't need to resort to bathroom vulgarisms to get a laugh will appreciate this masterpiece.

This was my first introduction to a silent comedy that was different - more sophisticated than the silent classics of Chaplin and Keaton. How will it stand up after over 50 years ago when I first saw it.

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