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Clip description
Basher Bill (Michael Bidencope) is robbing Dolores (Lilian Fetherstonhaugh) on the side of the road after her return from the grocery store. She cries for help. Her cries wake Charlie (Cynthia Bidencope) who was sleeping in the bushes nearby. Charlie clumsily comes to Dolores’ aid. He hooks Basher Bill with his umbrella and knocks him out. He then helps Dolores to her feet and picks up her groceries. He then offers to take her to safety on his bike, but after a somewhat unsuccessful attempt, they decide to walk.
Curator’s notes
Cynthia Bidencope as Charlie beautifully captures the light comedy and physical character of Charlie Chaplin in this clip. For an amateur production – a family farce no less – it is a remarkable home movie. Her character fully utilises her props – an umbrella, binoculars, bowler hat and a bicycle – to great comic effect. The dramatised scenario perfectly places the Charlie Chaplin character in a heroic role.
This scene was filmed on the road between Lindfield and Killara, New South Wales. The road is now part of the 4-lane Eastern Arterial highway.
