A sennett is a type of slapstick comedy film made popular during the silent film era in the early 20th century. Derived from the name of pioneer film comedy producer Mack Sennett, the term refers to the short comedy films produced by Sennett and his Keystone Studios. Sennett's films were characterized by their fast-paced, chaotic, and often violent humor, featuring exaggerated physical comedy, practical jokes, and comedic chase sequences.
Typically, a sennett involved a brief and simple plot, revolving around a group of characters engaged in humorous situations. These films were often structured in a series of gags and comedic set pieces, showcasing the physical talents of the actors involved. Slapstick humor, such as exaggerated slips, falls, and pie throwing, was a primary element of sennetts.
Sennett's films were highly influential in the development of early comedy and slapstick, and many notable comedians, such as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton, started their careers working for Keystone Studios. The term "sennett" is now used more broadly to describe any short slapstick comedy film produced during that era, regardless of the studio or producer. Today, sennetts are considered an important part of film history, capturing the essence of early comedy and showcasing the talents of the pioneering slapstick performers.
