The Crazy Ray

Lore & Background

The Crazy Ray, originally released as Paris Qui Dort in 1924, is a silent science fiction comedy directed by René Clair. The plot centers on a mad scientist who deploys a magic ray that freezes citizens in strange and often embarrassing positions, while those unaffected by the ray begin looting the city. The film features a cast including Henri Rollan as Albert, Charles Martinelli as the scientist, and Albert Préjean as the pilot, among others.

Reader's Guide

The Crazy Ray represents an early example of French science fiction cinema, blending comedy with speculative elements. Its premise of a freezing ray anticipates later themes in the genre. The film's multiple release versions—including a 35-minute US short titled At 3:25 by Red Seal Pictures—reflect its varied distribution history. Today, it is preserved on the Region 1 Criterion DVD release of Clair's later film Under the Roofs of Paris (1930) and is freely available at the Internet Archive, ensuring continued accessibility for scholars and enthusiasts of silent and science fiction cinema.

Did You Know?

• The film was also released under the title Le rayon de la mort with a runtime of 55 minutes.
• Its international English-language titles include The Crazy Ray and Paris Asleep.
• In the US, it was released as a 35-minute short subject called At 3:25 by Red Seal Pictures.
• The film is available for free viewing and download at the Internet Archive.