The Live Ghost

Synopsis

"The Live Ghost" is a 1934 comedic short film starring Stan Laurel, part of the legendary duo Laurel and Hardy's body of work. The plot centers around a comedic adventure aboard a haunted ship, where misunderstandings and slapstick humor abound. Stan Laurel's character, with his characteristic innocence and clumsiness, becomes embroiled in a series of spooky yet hilarious events involving a supposed ghost. The film showcases Laurel's timeless physical comedy and comic timing, blending humor with elements of supernatural mystery. Its succinct storytelling and memorable gags make it a classic example of early 20th-century comedy shorts.

Cast

• 

  Stan Laurel

  Stan

• 

  Oliver Hardy

  Ollie

• 

  Walter Long

  Captain

• 

  Mae Busch

  Maisie the Vamp, Blonde Floozy

• 

  Charlie Hall

  Sailor at Table (as Charles Hall)

• 

  Arthur Housman

  Drunken sailor

Reviews

Critically, "The Live Ghost" is often appreciated for its classic slapstick comedy and the timeless performance of Stan Laurel. On IMDb, the film holds a respectable rating of 7.3/10, reflecting general audience enjoyment. Reviewers praise the short film for its efficient humor and classic Laurel style, noting that although it is brief, the gags and comedic setups are well-executed. For instance, classic film enthusiasts highlight the effective use of a haunted ship backdrop to create a uniquely funny atmosphere that combines suspense with comedy. While some modern viewers might find the pace slower compared to contemporary comedies, fans of vintage cinema consider "The Live Ghost" a delightful short that encapsulates the charm and wit of 1930s slapstick. No major critical aggregates like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic have formal reviews for this short due to its age and format, but historical and niche cinema forums consistently recommend it as a must-watch for Laurel and Hardy fans and enthusiasts of early comedic cinema.

See also

Kickboxer

Soulcatcher

Armor

Afire