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.

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.

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.

Credential
Directed by Fred C. Newmeyer
Produced by Hal Roach
Starring Harold Lloyd, Mildred Davis, Noah Young, Dick Sutherland
Screenplay by Jean Havez, Hal Roach, Sam Taylor, H.M. Walker
Cinematography by Walter Lundin
Edited by Thomas J. Crizer

This film blends romantic hijinks with military misadventures, showcasing Lloyd’s signature charm and physical comedy.

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