Steamboat Bill Jr. (1928)

Watching Silent Films

In Buster Keaton's last independent film for United Artists before moving on to MGM, this silent comedy is known for what might be considered Keaton's most famous film stunt: The facade of an entire house falling on top of him as he stands in the perfect spot to pass through the open attic window without being flattened.

The story involves the tale of an educated, effeminate, simple-minded son who ultimately is transformed and triumphant when he assists and impresses his burly, hard-working Mississippi steamboat captain father ("Steamboat Bill") in combating the threatening efforts of a rival tycoon (and typhoon) to take over the Mississippi steamboat business in the South - also win over the business rival's daughter.

In 2016, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Hosted by YiFeng, Lily and Bob.

Recorded July 1, 2020