It never ceases to amaze how much story and comedy can be squeezed into a truncated few minutes of a silent film. I feel like that sense of conciseness was broadly lost in film-making over subsequent years, but sharp writing and editing is all it takes to ably launch a narrative. So it is in 'Go west,' and before 10 minutes have passed the plot is well on its way. Filled with all the staples of Buster Keaton's pictures - situational humor, sight gags, physical comedy - this is an absolute delight, easily holding up nearly 100 years later.
Some moments are notably cartoonish, even for a Keaton flick, but at all points the movie is heartily funnily, and often simply charming. The total unpreparedness of protagonist "Friendless" for life on the ranch is a blast as he tries to apply city customs and sensibilities to a very different culture. The especial spotlight on the cow "Brown Eyes" lends much to the enchanting appeal here, adding a heartwarming touch of compassion to the feature. Yet rest assured, every scene is written and executed with an equally masterful, deft hand. Keaton's gift for exaggerated physicality, stunts, and practiced, dexterous body language and expression are a true joy; his stardom and legend are no mistake.
So much fantastic hard work went into crafting each shot and scene, and I'd love to read of the production history for 'Go west,' as I feel like the filming process must be quite a story in and of itself. Why, Brown Eyes' handling alone has me curious, as the bovine herself provides a great deal of entertainment, let alone the remainder of the film., Every rounding detail is fabulous, from set design and props to hair, makeup, and costume design. While Keaton is certainly the focus, everyone in the supporting cast is just as swell in bringing the farce to life. And I do mean "farce" - this may well be the most abjectly silly feature in all of Keaton's expansive oeuvre.
Unquestionably over the top as the movie is, it never feels overblown. All the ridiculousness and madcap energy only makes 'Go west' marvelously endearing, and highly enjoyable. One can always rely on Buster Keaton to ensure a good time, yet this still well exceeded my expectations. It's not just wonderfully funny, and invigorating, but it's also full of heart, and the end result is an exceptional silent comedy that's essential viewing for anyone who can appreciate the era.
Highest recommendation!
Some moments are notably cartoonish, even for a Keaton flick, but at all points the movie is heartily funnily, and often simply charming. The total unpreparedness of protagonist "Friendless" for life on the ranch is a blast as he tries to apply city customs and sensibilities to a very different culture. The especial spotlight on the cow "Brown Eyes" lends much to the enchanting appeal here, adding a heartwarming touch of compassion to the feature. Yet rest assured, every scene is written and executed with an equally masterful, deft hand. Keaton's gift for exaggerated physicality, stunts, and practiced, dexterous body language and expression are a true joy; his stardom and legend are no mistake.
So much fantastic hard work went into crafting each shot and scene, and I'd love to read of the production history for 'Go west,' as I feel like the filming process must be quite a story in and of itself. Why, Brown Eyes' handling alone has me curious, as the bovine herself provides a great deal of entertainment, let alone the remainder of the film., Every rounding detail is fabulous, from set design and props to hair, makeup, and costume design. While Keaton is certainly the focus, everyone in the supporting cast is just as swell in bringing the farce to life. And I do mean "farce" - this may well be the most abjectly silly feature in all of Keaton's expansive oeuvre.
Unquestionably over the top as the movie is, it never feels overblown. All the ridiculousness and madcap energy only makes 'Go west' marvelously endearing, and highly enjoyable. One can always rely on Buster Keaton to ensure a good time, yet this still well exceeded my expectations. It's not just wonderfully funny, and invigorating, but it's also full of heart, and the end result is an exceptional silent comedy that's essential viewing for anyone who can appreciate the era.
Highest recommendation!