In this special, exclusive interview, we get to learn a little bit more about the man who has captured our attention and laughs with his daring stunts and wonderful films. He has been called the Master of Slapstick and the Great Stone Face, and now here are some of his own words about himself and his career.
Twenties Today: Thank you very much for meeting with us, Mr. Keaton. I know you must be very busy with your next movie.
Buster Keaton: Not a problem.
TT: Well, let’s start at the beginning. You started working with physical humor when you were very young, correct?
BK: Yes, my parents and I had a vaudeville act, and my father was throwing me around the stage when I was no older than five.
TT: Didn’t you earn a reputation for being “The Little Boy Who Can't Be Damaged”?
BK: Yes. I also learned that you always get a better laugh if you don’t smile.
TT: True, you never do smile in your films. Does your facial expression ever change?
BK: As little as possible.
TT: What would you say is the favorite of your films to date?
BK: Probably Battling Butler. Though many say that The General is my best work and I won’t disagree. My favorite prop is the train.
TT: How is that? How can you use a train as a prop the same way you would use a ladder or even a staircase?
BK: Quite simply. I’m sure you’ve seen the film.
TT: Yes, of course, but why don’t you explain it for those of our readers who haven’t.
BK: You can do remarkable things with something as big as a train when you let yourself improvise. In the film, I can get a laugh with something as simple as filling the steam engine with fuel or a chase between two trains. And getting the laugh is everything.
TT: Well, you definitely get the laugh, Mr. Keaton. Thank you for your time.
BK: My pleasure.
Well, there you have it: the first exclusive interview with the modern king of comedy. We hope that you’ll be sure to see all of Mr. Keaton’s films, they are a visual treat unlike any other.
