Review of Sherlock Jr. (1924) by Douglas L — 05 Sep 2007

In a time before the film-going public became jaded, Hollywood was making delightfully whimsical silent films. Sherlock Jr. is one such masterpiece.

Relying on Keaton's brilliant sense of physical comedy and a gag-a-minute set-up, Sherlock Jr. is as charming as it is hilarious. As did many of the comedians of the time, Keaton portrays the underdog type. He found relation and thus acceptance in the hearts of those across the world. Everyone can associate with a down-on-his-luck individual making this film universal and timeless.

The dream sequence is fun though would now be considered a cliche. For it's time though, I'd imagine it was very innovative. Keaton tries to live his life by his fantasies and as one would expect, ultimately he gets the girl for (or perhaps in spite) of that.

Perhaps the plot is weak, but one would be hard-pressed to argue the same for the routine itself. All the comedy is inspired and witty. Keaton performs several miraculously dangerous stunts in this film as well that must be seen to be believed.

All in all, a wonderful piece from the silent era, Hollywood's first golden era. It hasn't lost any of it's charm with age; a must see.