Smiles

About This Movie

So, 'Smiles' from 1919 is quite an interesting piece, blending comedy with the backdrop of World War I. The story follows two sisters, Jane and Katherine, who are shipped off to their aunt in New Jersey after their father's disappearance. The absurdity of mailing kids—along with their dog, no less—adds a certain whimsy to the film. The pacing is a bit uneven, but it captures that peculiar mixture of innocence and wartime anxiety. Performances are charming, though not particularly polished, which kind of adds to its quaintness. The practical effects, like the dog in a mail bag, show some creativity for the time. There’s a lightheartedness that feels rare for wartime cinema.

This film has a somewhat elusive presence in collector circles—few surviving prints make it a rarity. It's appeared in various formats over the years, but the scarcity keeps it intriguing for those interested in early 20th-century cinema. Fans of silent films and wartime comedies often find 'Smiles' a peculiar addition to their collections, thanks to its unique narrative style and charm.