A Tribute to Masters: Buster Keaton’s Enduring Legacy with “The General”
THE GENERAL 4K (1926)
Directors: Buster Keaton, Clyde Bruckman
Highlights: A favorite of Orson Welles and Quentin Tarantino
Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, “The General” tells the story of Johnny Gray, a train engineer whose earnest desire to enlist is thwarted by the army’s rejection. Adding insult to injury, Union soldiers seize his beloved locomotive, “The General,” and kidnap his fiancée. Undeterred, Johnny embarks on a daring solo pursuit.
A Masterpiece of Silent Comedy and Action
With his signature deadpan expression, Johnny confronts a barrage of gunfire and mechanical obstacles as he reclaims his train, rescues his sweetheart, and delivers crucial military intelligence. “The General” seamlessly blends romance, war, adventure, and comedy into a cinematic tour-de-force.
The film’s meticulously crafted train chase sequences are a marvel of comedic timing and physical prowess. Johnny leaps across speeding rooftops, single-handedly dismantles railroad tracks, and even uses firewood as makeshift artillery to fend off the enemy. The action is both thrilling and absurd, showcasing Keaton’s unparalleled talent for physical comedy.
Acclaimed by Cinematic Giants
Orson Welles famously hailed “The General” as “the greatest comedy ever made,” while Quentin Tarantino considers it one of the greatest action films of all time. Experience the brilliance of Buster Keaton in this timeless classic, a testament to the power of silent cinema.