Excess Baggage

Synopsis

"Excess Baggage" is a 1928 silent comedy film starring William Haines, renowned for his charismatic screen presence and sharp comedic timing. The story revolves around a clever and adventurous young man who finds himself entangled in a series of humorous and unpredictable situations involving mistaken identity, romantic pursuits, and high-society antics. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, the film combines lighthearted romance with witty slapstick humor, capturing the era's exuberance and style. Directed by James Cruze, the film highlights Haines' charm as he navigates through social chaos and romantic entanglements, making it a delightful watch for fans of classic silent cinema.

Cast

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  William Haines

  Eddie Kane

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  Josephine Dunn

  Elsa McCoy

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  Neely Edwards

  Jimmy Dunn

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  Neely Edwards

  Mabel Ford

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  Ricardo Cortez

  Val D'Errico

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  Cyril Chadwick

  Crammon

Reviews

Excess Baggage (1928) holds a moderate position in classic cinema history, reflected in its IMDb rating of 6.4/10, indicating generally favorable but mixed audience reception. While not a standout masterpiece of its era, the film is appreciated by many for William Haines' engaging performance and the film's comedic timing. Critics often admire Haines' charisma and effortless charm that inform the movie’s lighthearted narrative, though some reviews note that the silent film's humor may seem dated or less impactful to modern viewers accustomed to contemporary comedic styles. For instance, classic film enthusiasts praise the film's nostalgic value and the spirited portrayal of 1920s culture, while noting the limitations imposed by the silent era's storytelling techniques. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated score for "Excess Baggage," reflecting limited contemporary critical reappraisal, yet historical reviews point to its status as a pleasant if somewhat conventional comedy of its time. While Metacritic does not list the film, the general consensus among silent film forums and retrospective critiques is that it remains a charming example of silent-era comedy, appreciated by enthusiasts for its period-specific aesthetics and vintage humor. Overall, "Excess Baggage" is remembered fondly for its lead performance and its contribution to the late silent film genre but is less celebrated as a timeless classic.