Movie spotlight
Taxi for Two
Dan Doolittle is a poor schmuck whose big talk usually gets him into trouble. After he is fired from his plumbing job, he saves Dolly Davis, who, grateful, promises to get him a job at the company where she works, Owl Taxi, which is owned by her father. That job is as the jack-of-all-trades in the garage, under the supervision of the garage foreman, whose job he expects to have within the week. But Dan becomes the bane of the foreman's existence, in part because Dan would rather spend his time with Dolly to who he is attracted. But after Dan is asked by the boss to drive Dolly to the taxi depot, Dan believes he can make his millions instead by buying a cab and starting his own taxi company. Interactions with Dolly's visiting brother - a hosiery salesman - who Dan mistakenly believes is Dolly's boyfriend, a pair of inflatable legs, and an angry foreman who was fired because of Dan's mistakes in the garage lead to one misadventure after another for Dan.
Insights
Plot Summary
A newly married couple finds themselves in a chaotic situation when their taxi gets into a series of mishaps. The driver, eager to impress his new wife, attempts to navigate a variety of increasingly absurd challenges.
Critical Reception
As a Buster Keaton short, 'Taxi for Two' is generally appreciated for its inventive gags and Keaton's signature physical comedy. While not as widely known as his feature films, it's considered a charming example of his early work, showcasing his ability to create humor from everyday situations and escalating misfortune.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its relentless pace and classic Keaton physical comedy.
Appreciated for its clever use of simple props and everyday scenarios to generate laughs.
Seen as a solid, albeit short, entry in Keaton's impressive filmography.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the timeless slapstick humor and Keaton's mastery of comedic timing, with many expressing delight at the short's inventive and often surprising gags.
Fun Fact
Buster Keaton was known for performing his own dangerous stunts, and while this short is less action-packed than some of his features, his trademark dedication to practical, often risky, comedy is present.
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