Released 100 Years Ago Today - 30 December 1924

West of Hot Dog (1924)

Stars: Stan Laurel, Julie Leonard, Lew Meehan

Directors: Joe Rock, Scott Pembroke (uncredited)

Writer: Tay Garnett (titles)

Joe Rock Comedies (I), Stan Laurel Comedy Company, Standard Photoplay Company

Time: 30 min.

Plot

On his way to collect inheritance in the small town on Hot Dog, Stan gets robbed by highwaymen, one of which is the other person who shall attend the reading of their late Uncle's will. The reading of the will states Stan will get everything, including 'The Last Chance Saloon', but in the case of Stan's death, the saloon will be split between Bad Mike and his friend. Stan now flees town, but gets on Bad Mike's horse, which takes him to Bad Mike's house. Bad Mike and his gang arrive at the house, after robbing the saloon. They soon hear Stan, and an epic gun battle follows, with the town Sheriff not far behind.

Released 100 Years Ago Today - 20 January 1924

Smithy (a.k.a. The Home Wrecker) – 1924

Original U.S. Title

Stars: Stan Laurel, James Finlayson, William Gillespie

Directors: George Jeske, Hal Roach

Writer: H.M. Walker (titles)

Hal Roach Studios

Time: 20 min

Plot

After being discharged from the 372nd infantry, on account of a bean shortage, smithy seeks employment.

The U.K. Title

He finds employment at a construction site, where he helps to build a house, and soon causes havoc amongst other workers. The construction company owner leaves for a week, and tells his secretary to send a letter to Mr. Smith telling him to complete the construction of the house while he (the owner) is away. The letter is accidently sent to Smithy who manages to complete the house. When the owner returns the house is complete, and Smithy is commended until the last support beam is removed...