Watch Tillie's Punctured Romance

Tillie's Punctured Romance is a silent comedy film from 1914, directed by Mack Sennett and starring Charles Chaplin, Marie Dressler, and Mabel Normand. The film is considered a landmark in the history of American cinema, as it was the first feature-length comedy ever produced. The plot revolves around Tillie Banks (played by Dressler), a homely, naive country girl who is wooed by slick city slicker Charlie (played by Chaplin) and his accomplice Mabel (played by Normand). After they convince her to elope with Charlie, he abandons her and runs off with her inheritance, leaving her penniless and heartbroken. However, Tillie soon discovers that her true worth lies not in her wealth or looks, but in her own intelligence and resilience, and she sets out to make a new life for herself.

The film is filled with classic slapstick comedy, including scenes of Chaplin pretending to be a duke and wooing Tillie with fake charm, and Normand trying to seduce a wealthy man while simultaneously trying to avoid her bumbling husband. Dressler's performance as Tillie is particularly notable, as she imbues the character with both pathos and humor, making her a sympathetic figure despite her apparent gullibility.

The film also features some impressive technical achievements for its time, including a large ensemble cast and intricate set designs. However, the real star of the show is the chemistry between the three lead actors, who display a natural flair for comedy and a knack for improvisation that makes the film feel fresh and irreverent even today.

Despite its successes, the film was not without controversy. Its portrayal of women as gullible and easily manipulated was criticized by some feminist groups, and its depiction of violence and sexual innuendo was considered scandalous by some conservative viewers. Nevertheless, it remains a landmark in the history of cinema, and a testament to the enduring power of comedy to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages.