Holding His Own

About This Movie

Holding His Own is a curious little piece from 1917, part of the Jerry series by Folly Comedies. The setup—Jerry, an unfortunate soul who’s inherited a fortune but can’t quite pin down where it’s stashed—provides a whimsical backdrop for what unfolds. The humor has that charming, naïve edge typical of silent comedies, and while the director's name is lost to time, you can feel the playful energy of the era. The pacing is brisk, characteristic of the short format, keeping you engaged even if the narrative feels a bit thin. There’s a lightness to the performances, and the practical effects, although simple, bring a certain charm that’s hard to replicate today. It’s a nice snapshot of early comedic storytelling.

Finding copies of Holding His Own can be quite the challenge, given its age and the fact that many silent films from this period haven't survived in good condition. It’s often tucked away in the catalogs of specialized collectors, making it a bit of a hidden gem for those who appreciate early cinema. The Jerry series itself, while not as well-known as others of its time, holds a certain quirky appeal and stands out for its lighthearted narrative style. If you're on the hunt for early silent comedies, this one definitely has a niche but interesting place.