Erik the Viking
Erik the Viking

Movie spotlight

Erik the Viking

1965
Movie
95 min
Italian

Viking chief Thorvald dies from a mortal combat wound. He realizes his son Erloff is not a worthy successor, but his will divides his property equally between him and Erik, the valiant son of his sister, who also gets his weapons and the mission to lead a sea-faring expedition to find new land for a settlement, crucial as their Scandinavian home village won't be able to resist the might of the Danish kingdom.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Buster KeatonGenres: Comedy, Adventure

Plot Summary

In this silent comedy, a Viking named Erik, disillusioned with the constant warfare and raiding of his kin, sets out on a quest for peace. He journeys to find a mythical land where warriors can lay down their arms. Along the way, he encounters various challenges and humorous situations, often involving misunderstandings due to cultural differences.

Critical Reception

Buster Keaton's final film appearance, though released posthumously, 'Erik the Viking' is a curious footnote in his career. It's often viewed as a charming, albeit minor, entry in the genre of historical comedies. While the film showcases Keaton's signature physical comedy and deadpan delivery, its plot is considered somewhat slight and its comedic elements less sharp than his earlier masterpieces.

What Reviewers Say

  • A final, albeit lesser, showcase of Buster Keaton's comedic genius.

  • The film's humor relies heavily on physical gags and situational comedy.

  • Considered a curio by fans due to its late release and less ambitious plot.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Erik the Viking' is generally lukewarm, with viewers appreciating Buster Keaton's presence and the nostalgic feel of the silent comedy era. However, many find the story less engaging and the jokes not as inventive as his classic works, positioning it as a film more for dedicated Keaton enthusiasts.

Fun Fact

This film was completed by Buster Keaton's son, James Keaton Jr. and producer Harold Minsky after Buster Keaton's death in 1966, and was released in 1965, which means it was released before Keaton's death.

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