Product: The Further Perils of Laurel and Hardy
Rating: 4.0
Finally, one of Youngson's compilations is on DVD in America
I call this the first Robert Youngson compilation to be truly released on DVD in America, though there was a release of "When Comedy Was King" 3-4 years ago. However, "When Comedy..." had defects from the source videotape, and there were artifacts from the digital conversion. I think it's subsequent disappearance from the market indicates that the DVD release was not a legitimate one. "The Further Perils of Laurel & Hardy" appears much more authentic, though it should be noted that the film appears to have lapsed into the public domain in Europe, as the film has appeared on at least one low-rent UK movie download service.That said, any Robert Youngson compilation of silent comedy is a welcome addition to a fan's library. The film contains some hilarious scenes from Laurel & Hardy shorts like "Should Married Men Go Home?" and "Sugar Daddies", both of which I remember viewing in the days of Super 8mm film. It also contains a good selection of footage from other Hal Roach comedies featuring Charley Chase, Snub Pollard, and even a scene with Jean Harlow before she became the Marilyn Monroe of the 30's.By the time this film came out, Robert Youngson had already made several such compilations, and had already mined much of Laurel & Hardy's silent catalogue. Classics such as "Two Tars" and "Big Business" had already been used, so Youngson used more footage from the duo's earliest efforts, when L&H; were not officially team & were still essentially co-stars instead of partners. "Sugar Daddies" is one such example, where the two are paired with Jimmy Finlayson, but not as antagonists.Long story short: If you're already a fan, then you don't need my recommendation. However, if you are a newcomer to Laurel & Hardy, this may not be the best film to start with. If you're in the USA, start with their sound comedies. If in the UK, buy "Laurel & Hardy's Laughing 20's" on DVD.