Buster Keaton

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Buster Keaton

Joseph Frank Keaton, known professionally as Buster Keaton, was an American actor, comedian, film director, producer, screenwriter, and stunt performer. He was born on October 4, 1895, in Piqua, Kansas, and died on February 1, 1966, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California. Keaton is best known for his silent films, in which his trademark was physical comedy with a consistently stoic, deadpan expression, earning him the nickname "The Great Stone Face."

Early Life

Buster Keaton was born into a vaudeville family. His parents, Joe Keaton and Myra Keaton, were both vaudeville performers. Buster joined the family act at a very young age, performing alongside his parents in a comedy routine that involved a lot of physical comedy and slapstick humor.

Career

Keaton's film career began in the silent film era. He first appeared on screen in 1917 in a series of short films with comedian Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle. His talent for physical comedy and innovative stunts quickly made him a star.

Silent Film Era

During the 1920s, Keaton made a series of silent films that are now considered classics. Some of his most famous works include:

• The General (1926)
• Sherlock Jr. (1924)
• Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928)
• Our Hospitality (1923)
• The Navigator (1924)

These films are noted for their elaborate physical stunts, which Keaton performed himself, and their innovative use of special effects and camera techniques.

Sound Film Era

With the advent of sound in cinema, Keaton's career faced challenges. He signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 1928, but the studio's control over his work led to a decline in the quality of his films. Despite this, he continued to work in film and television throughout the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s.

Personal Life

Keaton was married three times. His first marriage was to actress Natalie Talmadge, with whom he had two sons. The marriage ended in divorce in 1932. He later married Mae Scriven and then Eleanor Norris, who remained with him until his death.

Legacy

Buster Keaton is remembered as one of the greatest comedians and filmmakers of the silent film era. His influence can be seen in the work of many later comedians and filmmakers. In 1959, he received an Academy Honorary Award for his lifetime achievements in the film industry.

Related Pages

• Charlie Chaplin
• Harold Lloyd
• Silent film
• Vaudeville
• Slapstick comedy
• Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer