The Cook (partially lost comedy film; 1918)
Theatrical poster for The Cook
Status: Partially Lost
The Cook is a silent comedy film directed by Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle and produced by the Joseph M. Schenck. Released on September 15, 1918, by Paramount Pictures. it stars Arbuckle alongside Buster Keaton, Al St. John, and Alice Lake, all renowned for their contributions to early slapstick comedy.
Plot
The Cook is set in the bustling kitchen of a restaurant where Fatty Arbuckle's character, the chef, tries to maintain order amidst the chaos. Buster Keaton plays his bumbling assistant, and together they navigate a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings. The film showcases a variety of slapstick routines, including humorous cooking antics and physical comedy, typical of Arbuckle's and Keaton's styles.
Reception
Upon its original release, The Cook was praised for its inventive humor and the chemistry between Arbuckle and Keaton. The film was well-received by audiences who enjoyed its fast-paced and energetic comedic sequences. It is considered an important work in the silent comedy genre, highlighting the talents of its leading actors.
Discovery and Restoration
For many years, The Cook was thought to be a lost film, with no known surviving copies. This changed in 1998 when a nitrate print of the film was discovered in the Norwegian Film Archive. This print was found in an unmarked canister along with another Arbuckle film, A Reckless Romeo (1917). Although damaged, this discovery was significant as it provided a substantial portion of the film that was previously missing.
Further progress was made in 2002 when an additional print was located at the EYE Film Institute Netherlands. This print included approximately 600 feet of extra footage not found in the Norwegian copy. By combining the footage from both prints and referencing a synopsis from the Library of Congress, archivists were able to create a more complete version of The Cook. However, some scenes from the original film remain missing, and the film is still considered partially lost.[1]
Availability
The restored version of The Cook, which combines footage from the Norwegian Film Archive and the EYE Film Institute Netherlands, is now available on the DVD collection titled The Cook and Other Treasures. This collection has made it possible for contemporary audiences to experience the comedic brilliance of Arbuckle and Keaton, preserving their legacy for future generations.
Legacy
The Cook is a significant film in the history of silent cinema, demonstrating the early comedic genius of Roscoe Arbuckle and Buster Keaton. Their performances in this film contributed to their enduring reputations as pioneers of slapstick comedy. The restoration of The Cook has allowed film historians and enthusiasts to appreciate a classic example of early 20th-century comedy.