MovieChat Forums > Laugh, Clown, Laugh (1928) Discussion > I don't understand...

I don't understand...

posted 17 years ago by novastar_6
4 replies | jump to latest

I was never able to catch this film in whole...but was it ever explained why Lon Chaney's character was always crying, and the other guy was always laughing?

[–] MerryArtist 16 years ago

The characters of Lon Chaney and Nils Asther had the same neurologist, and he told them that their uncontrollable fits of crying and laughter would be cured once they succeed in love. Chaney's crying was caused by the hopelessness of his love for Simonetta (Loretta Young) while Asther's laughter was a result of his self-indulgence and "too many loves", according to the doctor.

"Waiter, will you serve the nuts? I mean, will you serve the guests the nuts?"

[–] King_Of_Fuh 11 years ago

Seems like a reasonable diagnosis. Medical marijuana could have helped, but then again, the sight of Loretta Young while on a really good high might have been overwhelming and could possibly cause deep depression and excessive misery, unless she returned your sentiments.

The film was on TCM tonight and I'm glad it was in good shape, except for the opening credits.

[–] Kingsbridger 11 years ago

The Tito character was depressed because he only got to smootch the lovely Loretta once because he was a mid 40's guy with a 14 or 15 year old Lolita, and after all there ARE limits. The other character Luigi was laughing uncontrollably because this perverted character was allowed to get away with smootching Loretta's feet, having his hands brush up against her buppies (when lifting her up)and making out with this 15 (at most) year old child, probably with some tongue involved. He couldn't believe he got away with this. Life ain't fair you know. Chaney died only a few years later. Maybe because life wasn't fair for this middle class guy while the aristocratic 1-percenter got some.

Or am I kidding?

[–] King_Of_Fuh 11 years ago

You have a point. Chaney went through enough physical misery getting into many of his characterizations. I hope he enjoyed himself on this one. Get back, Loretta.