Movie spotlight
Second Childhood
A lonely, rich, hypochondriac is celebrating her 65th birthday in the same manner in which she observes the other 364 days of the year by complaining, berating her servants, taking her pills and grumping about everything around her, including the sunshine. A toy airplane comes flying through an open window and breaks a vase, and when its owner, Spanky, comes in search of it he is informed he will have to pay seventy-five cents for the broken vase. Spanly has never seen six-bit, much less having it in his pants, so he offers his and his friend's help in cleaning up the yard in exchange. Before the kids are through, they've given the old lady a new outlook on life.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this short film, a wealthy and lazy heir lives an extravagant life, constantly seeking new thrills. His antics lead him to pretend to be a child to inherit his fortune, creating a series of comedic situations. He must navigate the challenges of this charade while dealing with a potential gold digger and his own immature behavior.
Critical Reception
As a short film from Buster Keaton's later career, 'Second Childhood' is often viewed as a lesser work but still showcases some of his signature physical comedy. It was produced during a period when Keaton's creative control was limited, and it's generally seen as a lighthearted, albeit unremarkable, entry.
What Reviewers Say
Showcases some of Keaton's physical comedy prowess.
A light and somewhat forgettable entry in Keaton's filmography.
Limited by the production era and Keaton's diminished creative control.
Google audience: Audience reception for this short is generally mixed, with some appreciating Keaton's enduring comedic style while others find it to be a weaker offering compared to his earlier masterpieces.
Fun Fact
This film was one of the last shorts made by Buster Keaton before he transitioned to a more stable, though often creatively stifling, contract with a major studio.
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