Chase Megapack | Charley
Features Chase's iconic 10- and 20-minute silent shorts where his visual timing and comedic pacing were perfected.
If you were to buy only one set, this is widely considered the best starting point. Released in 2012 to coincide with the 100th anniversary of Chase's film debut, this 2-disc collection features over five hours of his finest silent work from his peak years at Hal Roach. Its crown jewel is (1926), a masterpiece of farce selected for preservation by the Library of Congress' National Film Registry. It also features other beloved shorts like April Fool , Bad Boy , Mama Behave , and The Uneasy Three (which is exclusive to this set, sourced from a MoMA 35mm print). With insightful commentary, this set is "essential viewing for anyone interested in silent comedy".
The preservation of Chase’s work is critical because much of early cinema has been lost to time. MegaPacks often draw from the best extant film prints available, ensuring that his sophisticated brand of humor is not forgotten. For fans of the Silent Clown era , these packs represent the most cost-effective way to own a massive library of classic comedy. CHARLEY CHASE ON DVD—AND THELMA TODD, TOO Charley Chase MegaPack
Charley Chase's influence on future comedians is evident in the work of comedians such as Bob Hope, Jack Lemmon, and Dick Van Dyke. Chase's comedic style, which blended physical humor with witty one-liners, has been emulated by many comedians, including the likes of Jim Carrey and Steve Martin.
: Later volumes cover his transition to sound films (1930–1931), featuring frequent leading lady Thelma Todd and classics like The Pip From Pittsburg . Features Chase's iconic 10- and 20-minute silent shorts
Historically, many of Chase's films were difficult to find, preserved only on degrading nitrate film or low-quality bootleg VHS tapes. The MegaPack solves this by gathering beautifully restored prints, complete with synchronized soundtracks, original scores, and rare bonus features. Key Highlights of the Collection
Years later, when they finally renamed a little alley behind the theater in honor of the man who had kept the lights on, they called it Keeper’s Lane. Kids would run past and pretend to be small figures in the background, watching the world with intent. Old timers would nod and say, as if imparting a truth, “The Megapack taught us to look.” Its crown jewel is (1926), a masterpiece of
: A masterclass in "wrong place, wrong time" storytelling.
To appreciate the MegaPack, one must understand the man behind the mustache. Charles Joseph Parrott (1893–1940) was a pivotal figure in early Hollywood: The Persona
No. They often worked together at Keystone Studios, but Chase is the older brother of comedian/director James Parrott, not Charlie Chaplin.