Sherlock Jr. (1924)

Every inch of footage holds such a laugh!

"Among the greatest screen comedies of all time" – American Film Institute

Herladed as both Keaton's greatest film and one of the greatest films ever made, Sherlock Jr. (1924) represents the best of Buster as a comedic performer and director. It's technically inventive, pushing special effects to their limit, as in the scene where Buster is drawn into the world of film. It's also distinctly postmodernist, playing with the conventions of filmmaking and the presence of the fourth-wall. And, of course, it's full of incredible set-pieces – including one stunt so dangerous it broke Keaton's neck. 

Keaton stars as s film projectionist who longs to be a detective, and puts his meagre skills to work when he is framed by a rival for stealing his girlfriend's father's pocketwatch.

Screens with One Week (1920), the first film Keaton directed and headlined, which arrives full of the innovative visual gags and slapstick setpieces that would propel the young performer to fame.

Rating

G

Cast

Buster Keaton, Kathryn McGuire, Joe Keaton, Erwin Connelly, Ward Crane

Director

Buster Keaton