The Straw Man

Georgie gets in wrong with Carmen at school through bad boy Dan, who puts on his innocent rival the blame for his own misdeeds. The two boys go into the cornfield at recess time to fight it out. There they are informed by another youngster that the straw man has come to life. Terrified, they run back to the schoolhouse. Georgie's Grandfather Truax, an old '49er, arrives in search of an escaped convict. He goes to investigate the cornfield, and Georgie follows him. Truax, with the help of his small grandson, takes the animated straw man captive. The 49er turns over the criminal to the guards, and children congratulate Georgie. Carmen is moved to kiss her hero.

Directed by Chester M. Franklin, Sidney Franklin, The Straw Man leans on a strong ensemble — Augustus Carney, Georgie Stone, 'Baby' Carmen De Rue — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1915.