Review of The General

The General (1927) was the film that defined the career of legendary

Comedian/Director Buster Keaton. He took many risks (monetary and

physical) to get this movie made. During his day The General was both a critical and box office failure. Today however it is viewed as classic cinema and one of the greatest films of it's era.

The story revolves around the life of a train engineer (played by

Keaton) who is moved by his fellow Southerners to fight against the Union.

Sadly he's rejected by the local militia, nut with his trusty locomotive "The General", Buster finds away to help the cause! He also has to balance out

the two loves in his life, his fiancée and "The General". Can he find true

love and save the day?

I found this film to be an outstanding work of art. The stunt and

secondary direction by Buster Keaton is outstanding. His work was very

innovative and ahead of it's time. He risked his safety on many occasions

and the bridge stunt was the most expensive set piece during the silent era.

Much maligned in it's day but today The General is looked upon as a true

cinematic treasure.

Highly recommended for silent movie fans and film history buffs.

A+