A Busy Day (1914) - Charlie Chaplin Old Colorized Movie

Chaos and Conflict at the Military Parade

**A Busy Day** is a historical **Keystone Comedy** short, released on May 7, 1914. Directed by **Mack Sennett**, this film is notable as the first time **Charles Chaplin** appeared in female attire on screen, playing a rather belligerent and jealous **Wife**. The six-minute short was filmed on location during an actual military parade and dedication ceremony near San Pedro Harbor, providing a vivid glimpse of the era.

The thin plot centers around the Wife's ferocious jealousy over her **Husband** (played by **Mack Swain**), who is openly flirting with **The Other Woman** (Phyllis Allen) amidst the festivities. Chaplin, in his un-ladylike drag persona, unleashes a barrage of kicks and slaps as she pursues the errant couple. Her rampage inadvertently disrupts the outdoor filming of a movie, scattering the crew, including the film director (Mack Sennett) and a police officer.

The Classic Keystone Finale

In true **slapstick** fashion, the short escalates into a frenzied chase and battle. Despite Chaplin's efforts to thwart the flirtatious pair, the film culminates in a swift and comical defeat: the husband shoves the wife off the edge of a pier. Chaplin's character makes a huge splash, falling completely into the harbor waters, bringing an abrupt and soaking end to her "busy day" of mayhem.

As a **split-reel** comedy, the film's brevity delivers concentrated laughs and physical stunts, characteristic of early **1914 silent film**. This version has been digitally enhanced and revitalized with **AI Colorization** using tools like DeOldify and ESRGAN, allowing a modern audience to appreciate the chaotic scenes in high-quality, vibrant color while preserving the **Public Domain** status of this historic work.