Cecil Hepworth's production company released nearly twenty in the popular series of anarchic Tilly comedies between 1910 and 1915 (during which period Hepworth himself largely chose not to direct).
This early episode in the series, released in (1910), was directed by Lewin Fitzhamon - who directed at least two other Tilly films - and follows the chaotic exploits of the mischievous Tilly and her sister, Sally, as they upset their elderly neighbour Mrs. Smith, steal a laundry van and cause a flour fight in a bakery. The young actresses Chrissie White and Alma Taylor, who would go on to become the leading Hepworth stars, usually played Tilly and Sally respectively. Here, however, Chrissie White plays Tilly alongside an unidentified actress.
Mark Duguid *An extract from this film is featured as part of 'How They Laughed', Paul Merton's interactive guide to early British silent comedy. Note that this material is not limited to users in registered UK libraries and educational establishments: it can be accessed by anyone, anywhere.
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