SPEAK EASILY

Cinemavixion Review

Edward Sedgwick's "Speak Easily" from 1932 is a charming artifact of early Hollywood, offering a delightful blend of academic earnestness and show business absurdity. The film centers on a timid professor, portrayed with characteristic understated charm by Buster Keaton, who unexpectedly inherits a fortune. This windfall propels him into the chaotic world of Broadway, where he endeavors to finance a musical production, much to the bewilderment of those around him. The narrative cleverly contrasts the sterile environment of academia with the vibrant, often cutthroat, nature of the theatre. Keaton's comedic timing remains impeccable, even as he navigates the plot's more romantic and dramatic turns. Jimmy Durante provides boisterous energy, complementing Keaton's quiet desperation. While the film may not boast the complex narratives of later cinematic eras, its humor, performances, and unique premise make it a worthwhile watch for enthusiasts of classic comedy and the golden age of Hollywood.