Movie spotlight
The New Landlord
Az Uj Foldesur (The New Squire) was based on a novel by popular Hungarian author Maurice Jokal, whose many works had previously been largely ignored. After the wars of 1848, a retired Austrian army officer "returns to the soil" as a gentleman farmer in Hungary in the 1850s. The old campaigner is the father of two daughters: One of the girls comes to a sad end thanks to the malfeasances of a handsome spy, but the other has a happier fate when she falls in love with a Hungarian POW. The underlying theme is brotherhood, as the formerly warring Austrians and Hungarians at last find a common ground. Az Uj Foldesur was nearly twice as expensive as the average Hungarian film -- but at $40,000, its budget was a drop in the bucket compared to a typical Hollywood production.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this short comedy, a penniless man inherits a property, only to find himself in conflict with a tough new landlord who wants to evict him. Buster Keaton plays the role of the potential tenant facing eviction.
Critical Reception
As a short film from the mid-1930s, 'The New Landlord' is primarily remembered for featuring Buster Keaton in one of his later roles. While not a major critical success in its time, it offers a glimpse into Keaton's enduring comedic timing.
What Reviewers Say
Features the classic physical comedy style of Buster Keaton.
A brief but entertaining short film from the era.
The plot is simple and serves as a vehicle for comedic situations.
Google audience: Audience reviews for 'The New Landlord' are scarce, but fans of Buster Keaton appreciate his presence and comedic contributions in this short.
Fun Fact
This short film was part of a series of shorts Buster Keaton made for Educational Pictures in the 1930s, attempting to revive his career after his major studio heyday.
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