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46679265
Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life
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Item #:
46679265
BSD 52
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What Stands Out
In-depth Biography
Explore the life of Buster Keaton, delving into his artistic genius and personal struggles, making it an essential read for cinema enthusiasts and aspiring filmmakers.
Beautiful Presentation
The deckle edge design enhances the tactile experience, making this hardcover a visually appealing addition to any bookshelf, perfect for collectors and fans of classic cinema.
Comprehensive Insights
Gain access to exclusive insights and anecdotes, offering a thorough understanding of Keaton's innovative techniques and contributions to film, ideal for students and scholars of film history.
Product Details
- **One of Literary Hub's Five Most Critically Acclaimed Biographies of 2022** **One of the New Yorker's Best Books of 2022** **Voted Best Silent Film Book of 2022 in the Silent London International Poll** It was James Agee who first christened Buster Keaton The Great Stone Face, but to audiences who had known Keaton since the age of five, it was merely a formality. The whole world had come to accept his stoic features as one of the genuine trademarks of silent film comedy, a deadpan in a pork pie hat as famous as Charlie Chaplin's disreputable tramp or Harold Lloyd's eager beaver in straw boater and spectacles. He was the only major comedian who kept sentiment almost entirely out of his work, Agee wrote, and he brought pure physical comedy to its greatest heights. Keaton's singular look and acrobatic brilliance obscured the fact that behinf the camera he was also one of the silent era's most gifted filmmakers. Through a string of nineteen short comedies and twelve extraordinary features he distinguished himself with such indelible works as One Week, The Play House, The Boat, Cops, Our Hospitality, Sherlock Jr., The Navigator, Seven Chances, Steamboat Bill, Jr., The Cameraman, and his magnum opus The General. As a body of work, they rival Chaplin's in terms of quality and sheer comic invention. In 1960 Keaton was awarded an honorary Oscar. Over the past century, Buster Keaton's story has become mired in myth and legend. Now James Curtis, the award-winning biographer of W.C. Fields, Preston Sturges, James Whale, and Spencer Tracy, follows Keaton's extraordinary life of triumph and tragedy in the first major biography in more than a quarter century. Drawing on newly unearthed archival resources, as well as interviews with family, friends, and co-workers, Keaton's complex genius emerges as never before. Curtis brings new insights to Keaton's medicine show and vaudeville years as Buster becomes one of America's most famous performing children. Entering films as the protegee of Roscoe Fatty Arbuckle, Keaton quickly ascends to co-director of some of the world's most popular short comedies. And when Arbuckle moves into features in 1920, Keaton begins to write, direct, and star in his own series of comedy classics, films that are still revived and honored today as some of the screen's greatest treasures. Curtis also examines in unprecedented detail what happens when a confluence of events brings an end to Keaton's time as a top star just as he appears to have mastered talking pictures. As Buster later put it, There I was on top of the world--on a toboggan. Illustrated with 130 images, some never before published, Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life is a compelling work of research and synthesis worthy of the man who has been called the D.W. Griffith of Comedy and who continues to be a potent influance on movies the world over.
| Publisher | Knopf |
| Publication date | February 15, 2022 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 832 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0385354215 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0385354219 |
| Item Weight | 2.48 pounds (1.12 kg) |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 1.5 x 9.49 inches (16.5 x 3.8 x 24.1 cm) |
Who Should Buy?
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Film Enthusiasts
Dedicated fans of classic cinema will appreciate detailed insights into Buster Keaton's innovative filmmaking techniques and style.
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Film Students
Students studying film history or comedy will find valuable information about Keaton’s impact on modern filmmaking.
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Biographical Readers
Readers interested in personal stories will enjoy the deep dive into Keaton’s life and creative challenges.
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Casual Readers
Those looking for light reading may find this detailed account too dense or specific to enjoy fully.
Product Description
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Customer Questions & Answers
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Question:
What is 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' about?
Answer: 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' is a comprehensive biography that delves into the extraordinary life and influential career of Buster Keaton, one of the most significant figures in early cinema. This book not only chronicles his groundbreaking contributions to filmmaking but also offers insight into his personal struggles and triumphs. Through in-depth analysis and fascinating anecdotes, readers can appreciate Keaton's unique approach to comedy and storytelling, as well as the impact he had on future generations of filmmakers and actors. -
Question:
Who is the author of 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life'?
Answer: The book 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' is written by the accomplished author/editor Edward Baron Turk, who is known for his extensive research in film history. Turk expertly combines biographical detail with critical analysis, making the text accessible and engaging for both casual fans and serious cinephiles. By weaving together interviews, historical context, and Keaton’s works, the author provides readers with a well-rounded understanding of Keaton’s artistry and his lasting legacy in the film industry. -
Question:
What unique insights can readers expect from this biography?
Answer: Readers can anticipate unique insights into Buster Keaton's creative process, his innovative filmmaking techniques, and the challenges he faced in Hollywood. The book features detailed examinations of his iconic films, highlighting how his distinctive style and performance shaped the silent film era. Additionally, it provides personal stories that paint a vivid picture of Keaton's character, making it more than just a film biography; it’s an exploration of an artistic genius who continually pushed boundaries and inspired countless others in the field of entertainment. -
Question:
Is 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' suitable for children?
Answer: While 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' is primarily targeted toward adults and film enthusiasts, older children and teenagers interested in film studies might also find it relatable. The biography presents Keaton's life story with historical context that can serve educational purposes. However, parental discretion may be advised, as some themes discussed may be complex or mature. For young readers looking to learn about filmmaking and one of its great pioneers, this book can be an inspiring introduction to the world of cinema. -
Question:
Can this book be useful for film students?
Answer: 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' is an invaluable resource for film students as it combines biographical details with critical analysis relevant to film theory and practice. It offers deep insights into the art of silent comedy and visual storytelling, making it a must-read for anyone studying film production or cinema history. By exploring Keaton's innovative techniques and narrative styles, students can apply these lessons to their own projects, drawing inspiration from one of the masters of cinematic expression. -
Question:
What makes Buster Keaton stand out among other silent film stars?
Answer: Buster Keaton is often regarded as one of the most innovative silent film stars due to his unique ability to blend physical comedy with poignant storytelling. His artistry lies not only in his impeccable timing and fearless stunts but also in the emotional depth he imparted into his characters. Unlike his contemporaries, Keaton often utilized a deadpan expression, which added a layer of complexity to his comedic situations. This biography vividly illustrates how his distinctive style set him apart in the realm of silent films, influencing many filmmakers who followed. -
Question:
What format is 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' available in?
Answer: 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' is typically available in multiple formats, including hardcover, paperback, and digital editions. This variety allows readers to choose the format that best suits their reading preferences and lifestyles. For instance, those who love the tactile experience of a physical book might prefer the hardcover or paperback versions, while digital readers can enjoy the convenience of e-books on their devices. This availability caters to a broad audience, making Keaton's story accessible to everyone. -
Question:
Has 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' received any accolades?
Answer: 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' has garnered critical acclaim for its thorough and engaging portrayal of Keaton's life and career. Reviewers often commend the depth of research and narrative style, which resonates well with both enthusiasts of silent film and newcomers alike. While specific awards may vary, the book's positive reception within film literature signifies its importance in documenting the legacy of a cinematic pioneer, establishing it as a noteworthy addition to collections about film history. -
Question:
What themes are explored in the book?
Answer: 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' explores a variety of themes, including resilience, creativity, and the impact of personal experiences on artistic expression. The biography highlights Keaton’s struggles with fame, creative control, and evolving industry trends, illustrating how these facets influenced his work and life choices. Readers gain insight into how Keaton’s humor was often a response to the challenges he faced, making the book a profound reflection on the life of an artist balancing personal and professional demands. -
Question:
Where can I buy 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life'?
Answer: You can buy 'Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life' from Ubuy in The Bahamas. Ubuy provides a user-friendly shopping experience, offering a range of books, including biographies and film literature. With Ubuy, you can browse their extensive collection, read customer reviews, and choose the format that best suits your reading preferences. The platform is designed to connect you to valuable resources and materials, making it a convenient choice for purchasing this informative biography.
Direction & Production Editorial Review
Buster Keaton: A Filmmaker's Life is an exceptional biography that expertly chronicles the life and career of the legendary silent film star, filled with extensive research and narrative depth. The book, published by Knopf, spans 832 pages and showcases the author's meticulous attention to detail, covering Keaton's remarkable journey through vaudeville and cinema. Readers appreciate the engaging writing style, which brings to life Keaton's struggles and triumphs without losing their sense of admiration for his genius. It not only serves as a tribute to Keaton’s legacy but also introduces newcomers to his influential work in film, making it a must-read for enthusiasts and casual readers alike.
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Pros
- Well-researched and comprehensive biography
- Engaging writing style keeps readers captivated
- Portraits of Keaton's life are detailed and vivid
- Captures both struggles and achievements of Keaton
- Perfect for both fans and newcomers to his work
Cons
- Some sections may feel overly dense with information
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Features & Benefits
- Major biography of legendary comedian and filmmaker Buster Keaton.
- His ingenious films remain modern and irresistible today.
- Influential figures like Mel Brooks and Martin Scorsese have praised Keaton's work.
- Recognized as the greatest comedy king among Chaplin, Lloyd, and Fields.
- He was not only an iconic performer but also an exceptionally gifted filmmaker.
- The biography is the richest and most comprehensive account of Keaton's life.
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