A Thrilling Stunt for the Ages
Released in 1923, Safety Last! starred Harold Lloyd and became legendary for its daring stunt where Lloyd hangs from a giant clock face high above city streets. This heart-stopping moment thrilled audiences and turned Lloyd into one of Hollywood’s biggest silent film stars.
A True Daredevil Behind the Camera
Despite losing two fingers in a prior film accident, Lloyd performed many of the film’s stunts himself, cementing his reputation as a fearless performer. However, some of the more dangerous moments, like hanging by a rope, were handled by a circus performer and stuntman Bill Strother.
An Iconic Improvisation
Interestingly, the clock-hanging scene was inspired by a real-life event. Lloyd saw Strother climb a building, sparking the idea for the stunt. The iconic scene was shot on multiple rooftops across Los Angeles, each building giving the illusion of a continuous climb higher and higher.
Preserved in History
In 1994, Safety Last! was selected for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry. It remains a defining work of early Hollywood and is celebrated for its creativity and daring.
High Above the Streets: Harold Lloyd’s Legendary Stunt 🕒
A Thrilling Stunt for the Ages
Released in 1923, Safety Last! starred Harold Lloyd and became legendary for its daring stunt where Lloyd hangs from a giant clock face high above city streets. This heart-stopping moment… pic.twitter.com/8iDfR9UQD7— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 3, 2024