The Big Noise
The Big Noise

Movie spotlight

The Big Noise

1944
Movie
74 min
English

During World War II Stan and Ollie find themselves as improbable bodyguards to an eccentric inventor and his strategically important new bomb.

Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Director: Malcolm St. ClairGenres: Comedy, Music

Plot Summary

A down-on-his-luck inventor, Ambrose, is constantly trying to create the perfect noisemaker. When he accidentally invents a device that can detect secrets, he and his friends find themselves entangled with gangsters and a beautiful damsel in distress. They must use Ambrose's noisy contraptions and quick thinking to outsmart the criminals and save the day.

Critical Reception

The Big Noise is often considered a lesser entry in Buster Keaton's filmography, particularly his later work. While it features some of his characteristic physical comedy, it lacks the innovative gags and tight scripting of his silent masterpieces. The film's humor is often broad, and its plot can be somewhat convoluted. However, fans of Keaton's later period may find some enjoyment in his performance and the slapstick elements.

What Reviewers Say

  • Buster Keaton's physical comedy is still present, though subdued.

  • The plot is a bit thin and relies on slapstick rather than sharp wit.

  • Often viewed as a product of its time, with mixed results for modern audiences.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews and their consensus for 'The Big Noise' is not readily available.

Fun Fact

This film is one of the last features where Buster Keaton received top billing, though his creative control had significantly diminished by this point in his career.

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