Review of The Cameraman (1928) by Josh M — 02 Jan 2010
From what I've read, The Cameraman is one of the last of the "true" Buster Keaton films, but that in no way hampers the fun to be had here. Saying it's my least favorite of the Keaton films I've seen sounds harsh, but that ends up being more a statement about how great the other films I've seen are and less about the quality of The Cameraman, which is solid.
The movie feels a little more plot-driven and lacks some of the ingenuity and creativity of, say, Sherlock Jr. or Steamboat Bill, Jr., but Keaton's charm makes it all work, wringing genuine sympathy out of what should be trite romantic comedy formula.
(There's just something about that stoic acceptance, isn't there? Accepting fate is one thing; accepting a woman's indifference is something wholly else.) But make no mistake, there are some brilliant scenes here.
My favorite may have been a wonderful use of an elevator crane as Buster charges up and down the stairs of his apartment building, but there's also the solo baseball game, the changing room scene, the piggy bank, the swimsuit.
.. The Cameraman won't beat out the sheer joy of Sherlock Jr. or The General, but it's still a lot of fun, and should be required viewing for any Keaton fan.
This review of The Cameraman (1928) was written by Josh M on 02 Jan 2010.
The Cameraman has generally received very positive reviews.
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