I've seen quite a few of Buster Keaton's short comedies and I would have to say this is probably one of the best of those still in existence. And, oddly, it isn't just because this is a very funny film, but because the first ten minutes or so are absolutely amazing--having perhaps the greatest camera-work of his age. In a case of complete absurdism, Buster is shown playing every part in a musical--including each member of the orchestra, the audience (ranging from men to women to kids) and even minstrels. While this isn't politically correct, it is amazing! Then, Keaton wakes up--it's all a very complex dream. In fact, he is a stage hand and occasional actor and has a wide variety of adventures both on and behind the stage. One of the cuter bits is an act consisting of identical twins--one is in love with Buster, the other could care less. He ALWAYS seems to think the wrong one is his lady love. In another great moment, he accidentally lets a trained orangutan go and so he dons makeup and imitates a chimp to keep the act from being a bomb. And, his chimp makeup and actions are uncanny and funny!
The film has so many laughs I can't even begin to list them all. Plus, amazingly fresh ideas and direction make this a must-see. Perhaps even better than wonderful shorts such as COPS!
The film has so many laughs I can't even begin to list them all. Plus, amazingly fresh ideas and direction make this a must-see. Perhaps even better than wonderful shorts such as COPS!