The High Sign 1921
"What A Predicament!"
Buster Keaton's *The High Sign (1921)* kicks off with a slapstick misadventure when the legendary silent-era comedian is unceremoniously tossed off a train near a shady amusement park.
Director: Buster Keaton
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The High Sign (1921) about?
The film follows Buster Keaton's character as he stumbles into a crime syndicate's plot to kill a businessman. Instead of carrying out the deed, he protects the man and his daughter by rigging their home with trick devices, leading to a series of chaotic and inventive confrontations.
Who directed The High Sign?
Buster Keaton directed *The High Sign*, showcasing his early directorial flair and physical comedy genius.
Who stars in The High Sign?
The film stars Buster Keaton, Bartine Burkett, Charles Dorety, Joe Roberts, and Al St. John in key roles.
Is The High Sign (1921) worth watching?
Though it's a short silent film, *The High Sign* is a delightful showcase of Keaton's physical comedy and inventive gags. Its brisk runtime and clever contraptions make it a fun watch for fans of vintage comedy and silent film enthusiasts.
How long is The High Sign?
The High Sign has a runtime of 21 minutes.
About The High Sign (1921) — Buster Keaton's Early Comedy Masterpiece Explored
Buster Keaton's *The High Sign (1921)* kicks off with a slapstick misadventure when the legendary silent-era comedian is unceremoniously tossed off a train near a shady amusement park. Desperate for work, he lands a job at a shooting gallery run by the nefarious Blinking Buzzards gang. When ordered to eliminate a local businessman, Keaton's quick-thinking protagonist flips the script, transforming the man's home into a fortress of booby-trapped gadgets to outsmart his would-be assassins. This 21-minute crime-comedy gem blends Keaton's signature physical humor with clever, improvised contraptions, all set against a backdrop of early 20th-century mischief.
The film's playful chaos and inventive gags highlight Keaton's knack for blending danger with delight, crafting a world where every ordinary object becomes a potential weapon against foes. With its zany premise and breakneck pace, *The High Sign* captures the spirit of silent cinema's golden age—where a single glance or stumble could turn a simple errand into a surreal escapade. Perfect for fans of vintage comedy and those curious about Keaton's early forays into visual storytelling.