by Hal Erickson
synopsis
This one-reel Max Linder comedy is also known by its American title, Max Wants to Skate. The dapper, mustachioed, top-hatted Linder takes his life in his hands when he enters an ice-skating rink. Unable to remain standing for more than ten seconds at a time, Max has enormous difficult keeping his hat on his head. Finally, he collapses on top of the hat, crushing the headpiece beyond repair. As he dissolves into tears, this Pathe production draws to a close. It has been suggested that One on Max was the inspiration for the Charlie Chaplin "skating" comedy The Rink.
