Movie spotlight
Three Live Ghosts
An investigator is asking Mrs. Gubbins about a William Foster, who was a friend of her stepson Jimmy. Both are listed as killed in action during the Great War. It is Armistice Day, 1918, and the war is over. Who should be strolling down the street but Jimmy Gubbins, Bill 'Jones' and another man who has lost his memory. They are ghosts as the official records list them as dead and not as escaped P.O.W's. Jimmy's mother is not happy to see that Jimmy is still living as she has been spending the death benefits, but she is happy to see Bill as there is a large reward for him. No one knows much about the third one, called 'Spoofy', except that he can steal anything at anytime and that gets everyone is trouble.
Insights
Plot Summary
In post-World War I London, three British soldiers, presumed dead by their families, attempt to return home without revealing their survival. Their humorous escapades involve impersonations and close calls as they try to avoid detection and reunite with their loved ones.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Buster Keaton's comedic performance and the film's lighthearted approach to its premise, though some found the plot somewhat predictable.
What Reviewers Say
Buster Keaton delivers a signature performance filled with physical comedy.
The premise offers ample opportunities for humorous misunderstandings.
Some found the story a bit thin and the pacing uneven.
Google audience: Audience reception data from Google is not readily available for this early silent film.
Fun Fact
Although released in 1929, the film was filmed entirely in the United States, despite its London setting.
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