Review of Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928) by Lawrance L — 12 Dec 2011

Even in films made today you will not see visuals this spectacular, and when it comes to characters, few are as lovable as Buster Keaton. Buster Keaton was one devoted actor, and after seeing this film it becomes very apparent that there are many points where he could have either permanently crippled himself or even killed himself due to the insane amounts of stunts centered around the destruction of tons of set pieces (primarily being houses). But prior to all the stunt and special effects insanity there is a lovable and somewhat relatable tale between Willie (Buster Keaton) and Mary (Marion Bryon) which is a romantic one. They are constantly separated by their stern, rivaling parents - each of which own a steamboat business of their own.

From the very moment Willie is introduced, he is lovable. He gets off the train into town on the opposite side of the station and proceeds to search for his father, who, in turn, is also searching for Willie. The father - Steamboat Bill, Sr - is convinced his son has grown to be a tall, strong, hardworking individual as himself, but he soon discovers, to his disappointment, that his son is a small, somewhat unintelligent, clumsy man. Nevertheless, Willie is hired by his father to work on his steamboat, and it isn't long before Willie is reintroduced to a childhood love of his and learns of the feud between their fathers.

This film is brilliantly filmed, acted, and it's story is, though cliche and simple by today's standards, very good. Any fan of film should appreciate this one, whether it be for the gags, the lovable characters, or the climactic, insane, dangerously-put-together, special effects loaded storm sequence. It's one of the best silent films out there and one of the best comedies ever made.