Those of us who love professional films are so, so fortunate that so many early films have been salvaged; in particular the comedies of Keaton, Chaplin and Harold Lloyd. More than that, many have been cleaned up to such a degree that they can be viewed in almost pristine condition. In Steamboat Bill Jr., Keaton uses an old steamboat and a windstorm as the two main expedients for his humour, and the physical condition as well as the creativity of the man are amazing. He does all his own gags, and actually puts his life in danger a couple of times in order to impress his audience in 1928. It still works.
Keaton's leading lady, Marion Byron, is as cute as apple pie. As well, she does a joyous walk that is straight off the dance floor from the 'roaring twenties'. She was only seventeen and in her first film here.
I am a sucker for old-time silent films for a couple of reasons. First, live music often fills in for the absence of dialogue. Today there we had a fine piano. I felt that I was present at both a film and a concert. Great value! Also the film today was introduced by an individual who gave the audience a heads-up on some of Keaton's more sublime moments...
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