I just love silent comedies. Sight gags work so well on film. Words get in the way sometimes and have a bigger chance of falling flat. In every one of my reviews of either Keaton, Lloyd or Chaplin, I’ve mentioned the others and I think I’ve seen enough of each filmmaker’s work to say they are equally great for different reasons and leave it at that.
In this film, Keaton plays Johnny Gray, a young train conductor who lives in the South at the time of the Civil War. He’s in love with Annabelle Lee (Marion Mack, THE CARNIVAL GIRL). When Annabelle’s father and brother rush off to join the Confederate army when the North comes knocking, Annabelle pressures Johnny to join. He doesn’t seem like he really wants to, but he’ll do anything for his girl. However, went the army won’t take him, Annabelle refuses to see him any more. However, when the Union army steals Johnny’s train with Annabelle on it, Johnny heads after them.
Much of the film is one wonderful sight gag after another. Keaton’s deadpan reaction to the craziness around him is hilarious. This film more than any other Keaton film I’ve seen clearly shows its influence on action comedians like Jackie Chan. Some of the stunts that Keaton pulls off are amazing.
Johnny is a wonderful character. He means well and tries to do what’s right, but bungles himself into success the whole way. The big battle scene at the end even makes a subtle comment on the randomness and even ridiculousness of war. Luck has a lot to do with things sometimes. If I’d name may favorite scene I’d name almost every scene. It’s just that good. Keaton also knew that saving the best gags for the end of the film is essential. The laughs in this film never run out of steam. This is a genuine classic that every film fan must see.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
