BUSTER KEATON: THE BELL BOY

Cinemavixion Review

Buster Keaton's "The Bell Boy" is a masterclass in silent film comedy, showcasing the inimitable physical prowess and deadpan delivery that defined his career. Set against the chaotic backdrop of the Elk's Head Hotel, the film hilariously depicts the trials and tribulations of bellhops, their interactions with guests, and the absurdities of hotel life. From a horse-powered elevator to a mock robbery that escalates into a genuine threat, Keaton crafts a narrative brimming with ingenious sight gags and escalating mayhem. The climactic chase on a runaway trolley provides a thrilling conclusion to this charmingly anarchic short. It's a delightful glimpse into the early genius of a comedic legend.