Mabel's Busy Day (1914) | Chaplin vs. Normand Hot Dog War

Mabel Normand as the hot dog vendor and Charlie Chaplin as the Tipsy Nuisance at a racetrack in Mabel's Busy Day (1914)

**Mabel's Busy Day (1914)** is a hilarious Keystone short directed by **Mack Sennett** and co-written by its two stars, **Mabel Normand** and **Charles Chaplin**. Set primarily at a bustling race track, the film focuses on a frantic sequence of petty larceny and slapstick combat as Chaplin, playing the "Tipsy Nuisance," tangles with Normand, the industrious hot dog vendor.

Synopsis: Hot Dogs and the Racetrack Chase

The film centers on **Mabel**, a spirited hot dog vendor working the crowd at a major auto race. Seeking entry to the main track, Mabel gives a complimentary hot dog to a nearby **policeman** who grants her access. However, while her attention is diverted by the excitement of the race, opportunistic customers start swiping hot dogs from her unguarded cart.

The chaos escalates when **Charlie** (as the Tipsy Nuisance), runs off with the entire box of hot dogs. Instead of selling them for profit, he pretends to hawk the wares only to start giving them away to the spectators, inciting even more mayhem. Mabel, realizing her stock is gone, quickly calls on her policeman friend, setting the stage for a classic Keystone battle between the two comedy legends, as Mabel attempts to recover her stolen merchandise.

Context: A Clash of Comedy Titans

Released in June 1914, **"Mabel's Busy Day"** is celebrated for its on-screen chemistry and the chaotic, yet ultimately affectionate, antagonism between Chaplin and Normand. The film showcases the trademark Keystone style: a high-speed chase built around a simple premise (stolen goods) and featuring a large ensemble cast, including veteran comedians like **Chester Conklin** and **Edgar Kennedy**. It also represents an important collaboration, as both Chaplin and Normand are credited as writers, blending the Tramp's character with Mabel's own strong, physical comedic persona.

Film Details and Restoration

Director:
Mack Sennett
Writers:
Charles Chaplin, Mabel Normand
Starring:
Charles Chaplin, Mabel Normand, Dan Albert
Production Company:
Keystone Film Company
Release Date:
June 13, 1914
Runtime (Approximate):
10 minutes
Color/Sound:
Black and White / Silent (Remastered & Restored Version)
License:
PUBLIC DOMAIN MARK / “No Known Copyright”

This version of the film has been remastered and enhanced using advanced techniques like **DeOldify, ESRGAN, and EDVR** to restore and preserve the quality of the public domain footage, ensuring the enduring humor of this early silent classic is visible for modern viewers.

Watch Mabel's Busy Day (1914) - Remastered

This film perfectly captures the mayhem and energy of the early Keystone era. Enjoy the hot dog hijinks!

📧 **Copyright Disclaimer:** This film is believed to be in the **public domain** and has been restored for historical and educational purposes. If you have any concerns regarding the copyright status, please contact the restorer directly at **inestorate@gmail.com**. We are committed to intellectual property rights and will promptly address any claims.