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OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 1048

Adventures of William Tell

18981 minFrance

Synopsis

A clown prepares a William Tell mannequin for target practice, setting fruit on its head. Before he can take aim, the supposed prop comes alive and fights back. Replacing its limbs only makes the performance more unruly, until the demonstration becomes a chase between the frustrated archer and his rebellious target.

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Video edition: Wikimedia Commons
Original language: No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: not identified.
This copy runs: 1:00
Subtitles: No subtitle track in this language

No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: not identified. No subtitle track in this language.

Languages and subtitles

No subtitle track in this language

Wikimedia Commons · Georges Méliès · Public domain

DirectorsGeorges Méliès

Behind the scenes

Méliès alternates a dummy with a live performer through substitution edits. The trick turns a familiar heroic image into a compact piece of knockabout comedy.

Sources and availability

General references identify the work and its copy. A reference beside an editorial section is linked to the claims checked in that section.

Wikipedia — film reference Wikidata — film identity and credits

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

The public-domain references concern the original films in the United States. Rights can differ for other countries, editions, restorations, music or translations. Sources are listed on each film page.

Availability checked on September 15, 2026.

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