A 1919 orangutan out-acts everyone. No, really. Cinema peaked early.
Two-reel comedy, directed by William S. Campbell staring noted orangutan actor, Joe Martin
Acting
Joe Martin, the orangutan, was genuinely famous in 1919
Practical Effects
Real chimp stunts, real chaos, zero safety regulations
Director
William Campbell
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Joe Martin was Universal's biggest animal star, earning $350/week—more than most human supporting actors in 1919.
Most prints were lost in a 1929 vault fire; surviving fragments suggest the original was significantly longer and even more unhinged.
US
