Buster Keaton profile
Buster Keaton, born Joseph Frank Keaton on October 4, 1895, in Piqua, Kansas, is widely regarded as one of the greatest silent film comedians and filmmakers in the history of cinema.
Known for his deadpan expression and incredible physical comedy, Keaton’s career spanned from vaudeville beginnings to pioneering silent films and a resilient presence in later years of cinema and television.
Early Life and Vaudeville Beginnings
Keaton’s career began in vaudeville, where he performed as part of “The Three Keatons” with his parents. His father, Joe Keaton, and his mother, Myra Keaton, were both vaudeville performers. From a young age, Buster developed a reputation for his acrobatic skills and physical comedy, earning the nickname “The Great Stone Face” for his stoic expression during comedic performances.
Transition to Film
In 1917, Keaton transitioned to film, joining the famous comedian Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle. He appeared in several short comedies with Arbuckle, quickly proving his talent for visual gags and slapstick humour. Keaton’s early film work laid the foundation for his later success as a solo filmmaker and star.
Silent Film Era and Directorial Debut
Keaton’s directorial debut came with the short film “The High Sign” (1921), but it was “One Week” (1920) that truly showcased his inventive comedic style. Keaton’s silent films from the 1920s like “Our Hospitality” (1923) are considered masterpieces of cinema, characterised by their elaborate stunts, innovative camera work, and meticulous attention to detail.
Landmark Films
Some of Keaton’s most notable films from the silent era include:
“Sherlock Jr.” (1924): A film where Keaton plays a projectionist who dreams of becoming a detective, featuring groundbreaking special effects and imaginative storytelling.
“The Navigator” (1924): A comedic adventure on an abandoned ship.
“The General” (1926): Widely regarded as his greatest work, this Civil War epic combines comedy with spectacular train stunts and is frequently cited as one of the greatest films ever made.
“Steamboat Bill, Jr.” (1928): Famous for its iconic house-front falling stunt, demonstrating Keaton’s fearless approach to physical comedy.
“The Cameraman” (1928): Keaton plays a clumsy photographer who attempts to become a newsreel cameraman to impress a studio secretary, resulting in a series of hilarious and chaotic events.
Decline and MGM Era
The late 1920s and early 1930s marked a decline in Keaton’s career after the advent of the talking picture era. After signing with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 1928, Keaton lost creative control over his films. MGM’s restrictive environment stifled his innovative style, but he still sparkled in ‘talkies’ such as “Parlor, Bedroom and Bath“. His personal life also suffered, leading to struggles with alcoholism and the end of his marriage to actress Natalie Talmadge.
Comeback and Later Career
Despite these setbacks, Keaton made a remarkable comeback in the 1940s and 1950s. He appeared in various supporting roles and television shows, where his comedic genius was rediscovered and appreciated by new generations. Keaton received an honorary Academy Award in 1960, recognizing his contributions to film comedy and his influence on the industry.
Legacy and Influence
Buster Keaton’s legacy is profound, influencing countless comedians, filmmakers, and actors. His innovative approach to visual storytelling and his mastery of physical comedy have left an indelible mark on the film industry. Modern directors like Quentin Tarantino and Wes Anderson cite Keaton’s work as a significant influence on their own.
WATCH Buster Keaton now in Sherlock Jr.; Parlor, Bedroom and Bath; One Week; Seven Chances; Our Hospitality; Steamboat Bill, Jr; The Navigator; The Cameraman and The General.