The Midnight Patrol

In this short comedy, a group of hapless police officers attempts to maintain order during a single night. Their efforts are continually thwarted by their own incompetence and the absurdity of the situations they encounter. The film follows their misadventures as they try to solve minor crimes and deal with eccentric characters.

As a short film from the early sound era featuring Buster Keaton in a less prominent role, "The Midnight Patrol" is primarily remembered for its historical context and Keaton's presence rather than groundbreaking critical acclaim. It's often viewed as a minor work showcasing Keaton's comedic timing in a limited capacity.

• A lighthearted, if forgettable, comedy short.

• Features Buster Keaton in a supporting role, offering glimpses of his physical comedy.

• Typical of the era's short comedies, offering simple gags and a straightforward plot.

Google audience: Audience reception for this short is difficult to gauge due to its age and format. Typically, viewers appreciate any appearance by Buster Keaton, but its brevity and early sound era limitations mean it's not a widely discussed film.

This short film was part of a series of comedy shorts Buster Keaton made for Educational Pictures after his major studio contract ended, marking a period where he worked with less creative control.