The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra held it’s annual silent film and fundraising gala at Royce Hall. The evening featured two Harold Lloyd’s silent films. The early 20th century films were re-scored in the by composer-conductor Carl Davis. Mr Davis conducted the LACO in a US premiere of a new score for “High and Dizzy,” a 1920 short film revolving around a young woman who sleepwalks and the doctor who is attempting to treat her.

He also conducted the feature length film “The Kid Brother” (1927). The gag filled fable about the youngest (and smallest) of three brothers who saves the day and gets the girl – while no one else in the rural community would accuse him of being the day saving, rescuing type. The film was made long before the Hollywood westerns established the white hat archetype of the good guy. And certainly long before any environmental issues about dam building and the distraction of habitat or even fire safety.

The Los Angeles Camber Orchestra played with it’s customary aplomb on the new score by Carl Davis.  The lower section of Royce Hall at UCLA was sold out and the sumptuous banquet that followed was well attended by Hollywood talent, from both sides of the camera. Dustin Hoffman was completed his 12th year as honorary chair of the event. The LACO honored Leonard Maltin, film critic and historian.