Quarantined Rivals

Elsie Peyton’s parents favor two different men for her. Dad likes Bruce Farney, as does Elsie while Mom prefers Bob Howard. The domineering Mrs. Peyton sees to it that football player Bruce is discouraged from taking Elsie to the game. Bruce stops in a barbershop where Minette, the manicurist flirts with him to make barber Ed jealous. Disappointed when he sees Elsie with Bob at the game Bruce follows them in his car. Meanwhile, Mrs. Peyton calls Minette to the house for a manicure. When the trio arrive from the game the house is suddenly placed under a 2-week quarantine for smallpox. Hilarious complications ensue as Bruce is obliged to room with his rival, but by a clever trick Bruce marries Elsie despite the quarantine.

Directed by Archie Mayo, Quarantined Rivals leans on a strong ensemble — Robert Agnew, Kathleen Collins, John Miljan — 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 1927.