Buster Keaton enjoyed a wave of popularity rivalled only by Charlie Chaplin. His later works aren’t as fondly remembered as the likes of Modern Times or The Great Dictator, but College is a short and sweet example of just how great a performer and director Keaton was, and why he managed to compete with the best in the silent business. As expected, College once again showcases Keaton attempting to win over his love interest, this time by engaging with a variety of sports to show that he has what it takes to not only be an intelligent academic but a sporting champion and acceptable partner.
You can really see Keaton hitting his stride as a director. Within College, you can see the rapidly changing landscape of Hollywood. Compared to Go West and Our Hospitality, the other films featured in this triple pack, it’s clear to see the change to cinematic styles. Establishing shots, more care put into the framing and lighting, it all showcases the storytelling Keaton had been dancing with for some years before. The visual humour is on a tremendous level, with flashy camera visuals and all the usual stunts to be found within. Keaton plays around with camera trickery to such a great extent here, it’s a real treat for newcomers to his style, but also those who are thoroughly familiar with his work. Slow-motion shots, a fluid narrative that relies on a perfect balance between physical comedy and storytelling excellence.
An abundance of classic gags, memorable moments, and overall an immense example of how Hollywood developed its comedic chops.
COLLEGE
Out of the three featured in this Eureka trilogy, College is arguably the strongest. Not just because it shows Keaton at his post-The General height, but the relative charm and pacing of the film are consistent. The jokes hit a steady beat, there’s a rhythm and seemingly a plan in action that College follows to the letter. Stringent planning is clearer throughout this one, something that wasn’t lacking in the previous instalments to this trio of remastering’s, but it was far less evident in those earlier works.
As expected for this third instalment in the Eureka Chaplin boxset, there are a plethora of extras for fans to feast their eyes on. The film itself is amazingly reassembled, but we should expect nothing less from the talents over at Eureka. The Rodney Sauer score paired with the feature is a beautiful match, a clear soundtrack that matches the tones and pacing of Keaton beautifully. Alongside the main feature, there is plenty of extras on offer, from a video essay by John Bengston, to a plethora of stills from both College and The Railrodder, a mid-60s Keaton short that shows him at the height of his game even in his twilight years. The short film itself is also included, alongside a documentary, Buster Keaton Rides Again, by John Spotton. It’s an overwhelming amount, all of it to be consumed without a moment to spare.
An abundance of classic gags, memorable moments, and overall an immense example of how Hollywood developed its comedic chops. With some period-sensitive issues that can hopefully be overlooked, College does feel dated in places, but the overall positives to be found in the comedy make it well worth the watch. Keaton’s work is always a pleasure to witness, and here is no exception to that sentiment, a charming, enjoyable piece that has more than enough special features to warrant a purchase for any would-be Keaton fan.
COLLEGE FEATURES ON THE LATEST BUSTER KEATON MASTERS OF CINEMA BLU-RAY SET
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