Launching a new blog devoted to the the wacky world of silent comedy. First on the agenda is Monty Banks. Largely forgotten today, Banks was a popular fellow in 2-reelers from 1920 through 1924, and then in features for the next several years. As with many independent comedians of the silent era, documentation on Banks’ films is scarce. With the help of Steve Massa, Robert James Kiss, Rob Farr, Karl Thiede, and a host of others, a more detailed filmography for Banks’ starring shorts is in the works. Stick around for further announcements.
comedyfastandfurious 
I come from the new age of cinematography, but silent comedies have always intrigued me because of the situations directors of photography are needed to perform in. I’m not familiar with Monty Banks (now I am), but I have always watched keatons and chaplins movies with wonderment. Knowing how difficult the pathe and other hand crank cameras were to achieve the type of results those artists did. Thanks for starting this blog I’ll keep checking for new stuff to co.e.
Thanks for your interest.
Bob Birchard
My grandmother, Lillian Manton, starred in a Monty Banks film, ‘The Compulsory Husband’. I believe it was his first talkie. Michael Powell acted a small part in it as well. I have been looking for a print of it but have not had much luck, I don’t suppose you or any of your colleagues could point me in the right direction?
Have you checked with the British Film Institute in London? You might try to contact Bryony Dixon there. She may be able to steer you in the right direction.
Best,
Bob Birchard
Lillian’s grandson Michael: Were you aware of this story about your grandmother. Please let me know either way if you had read this story?
The Milwaukee Sentinel – Mar 17, 1929
http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1368&dat=19290317&id=Q2VQAAAAIBAJ&sjid=AA8EAAAAIBAJ&pg=4708,3148019