Analysis of "The Sneeze"

"The Sneeze" by Thomas Edison Company was easily one of the most amusing films I've seen all year. It gave a new definition for what is considered short and sweet. The text in the beginning was used as a build up with an elaborate explanation of what happened and how it was supposed to happen. This build-up is what tricks the viewer into thinking they're about to see a long drawn out film of a sneeze and analysisfrom any angle or aspect. The four second clip of the actual sneeze would not be as effective or humorous without the immediate appearing of the text "The End". For me this is one of the most early examples of how editing and quick cuts and completely change the overall feel towards a film. Had the ending not followed the shot right after it was over I do not think it would have been as effective at making it funny or pointing out how overly explained it was.