A Sailor-Made Man (1921) – A Silent Comedy of Brashness and Bravery

'A Sailor-Made Man' is a 1921 American silent comedy film directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and starring Harold Lloyd. The story follows “The Boy,” a spoiled millionaire playboy who impulsively proposes to “The Girl” at a posh resort. Her father, a stern steel magnate, insists the Boy must prove his worth by getting a job. In a moment of bravado, the Boy enlists in the U.S. Navy—only to discover he’s locked into a three-year commitment.<br /><br />Aboard ship, he clashes with a burly sailor but earns respect after taking the blame for a mishap. When the crew docks in the exotic port of Khairpura-Bhandanna, the Girl is kidnapped by a local Maharajah. The Boy springs into action, rescuing her in a slapstick-filled palace chase. Back aboard ship, he uses signal flags to propose again—this time with her father’s blessing.<br /><br />Originally intended as a short, the film’s extended runtime emerged from an abundance of gags and audience enthusiasm, making it Harold Lloyd’s first feature-length comedy.<br /><br />Credential<br />Directed by Fred C. Newmeyer<br />Produced by Hal Roach<br />Starring Harold Lloyd, Mildred Davis, Noah Young, Dick Sutherland<br />Screenplay by Jean Havez, Hal Roach, Sam Taylor, H.M. Walker<br />Cinematography by Walter Lundin<br />Edited by Thomas J. Crizer<br /><br />This film blends romantic hijinks with military misadventures, showcasing Lloyd’s signature charm and physical comedy.<br /><br />#ASailorMadeMan1921 #SilentCinema #ClassicHollywood #HaroldLloyd #RomanticComedy #FredNewmeyer