Oh, Doctor!
Oh, Doctor!

Movie spotlight

Oh, Doctor!

1925
Movie
66 min
English

Rufus Billings was born premature and after a lifetime of doctors doting on his frail health he is now a hypochondriac of the first order. Now an adult Rufus has learned his late father has left him $750,000 but he won't inherit the sum for three more years. Rufus is certain he is on death's door and will never last three years so his Doctor arranges for a loan of $100,000 to pay for a live in nurse. Rufus only has to sign over his inheritance to the greedy trio of Clinch, McIntosh and Peck who along with the doctor are confident he'll live long enough to pay his debt.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Buster KeatonGenres: Comedy, Short, Silent Film

Plot Summary

In this silent comedy short, Buster Keaton plays a medical student who, desperate for money to marry his sweetheart, attempts to stage a fake illness. His plan goes awry when he actually contracts a real illness, leading to a series of chaotic and humorous misadventures in a hospital setting. The film showcases Keaton's signature physical comedy and inventive gags as he navigates the absurdities of the medical world.

Critical Reception

Oh, Doctor! is a highly regarded silent comedy short from Buster Keaton, celebrated for its clever premise, expertly executed physical comedy, and the star's unparalleled timing. While perhaps not as iconic as some of his feature-length masterpieces, it remains a testament to his comedic genius and is a favorite among silent film enthusiasts.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its rapid-fire gags and Keaton's signature physical prowess.

  • Appreciated for its inventive use of hospital settings for comedic effect.

  • Considered a solid example of Keaton's early comedic short film work.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's consistent humor and Keaton's remarkable ability to generate laughs through sight gags and slapstick, even within the constraints of a short film.

Fun Fact

Buster Keaton often performed his own dangerous stunts, and while specific details for 'Oh, Doctor!' are scarce, his dedication to realistic and physically demanding comedy was a hallmark of his career.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review