The Devil to Pay 1960
In *The Devil to Pay (1960)*, legendary silent-film icon Buster Keaton steps into the role of Diabolus, a fiery underworld figure who gets roused from Tartarus (or Hades) when a misfired American rocket crashes into his domain.
Director: Herb Skoble
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Devil to Pay (1960) about?
The film follows a NASA rocket gone awry that lands smack in the middle of Tartarus. There, the fiery underworld ruler Diabolus (played by Buster Keaton) is so enraged by the cosmic intrusion that he vows to unleash his wrath upon the United States. It's a lightning-fast blend of myth, sci-fi, and slapstick humor.
Who directed The Devil to Pay?
Herb Skoble directed this short comedy, bringing a playful touch to the parody of science-fiction tropes.
Who stars in The Devil to Pay?
The short features Buster Keaton as Diabolus, alongside Ralph Dunn, Ruth Gillette, Marion Morris, and John Rodney in key roles.
Is The Devil to Pay (1960) worth watching?
As a concise 28-minute silent comedy with narration, *The Devil to Pay* offers a fun glimpse into Buster Keaton's enduring charm and the playful absurdity of early sci-fi parodies. While it's not a blockbuster, its wit and brevity make it a delightful curiosity for fans of classic comedy or vintage cinema.
How long is The Devil to Pay?
The runtime for *The Devil to Pay* is 28 minutes.
About The Devil to Pay (1960) — Buster Keaton Meets Hades in a Classic Sci-Fi Parody
In *The Devil to Pay (1960)*, legendary silent-film icon Buster Keaton steps into the role of Diabolus, a fiery underworld figure who gets roused from Tartarus (or Hades) when a misfired American rocket crashes into his domain. Directed by Herb Skoble, this clever parody blends slapstick comedy with sci-fi tropes, turning cosmic blunders into a grotesque tale of revenge. The film's black-and-white visuals and deadpan humor evoke classic Hollywood satire, while Keaton's iconic physicality adds a layer of timeless charm. Set against the backdrop of Cold War-era sci-fi anxieties, *The Devil to Pay* offers a brief but unforgettable escape into absurdity and mischief.
This 28-minute short stands out for its concise storytelling and sharp wit, proving that even a modest runtime can pack a punch. With its blend of mythological mischief and interstellar mishaps, the film invites viewers into a world where gods and rockets collide. Whether you're a fan of vintage comedy or retro sci-fi, *The Devil to Pay (1960)* delivers a punchy, playful ride through the underworld.