Destin
Destin

Movie spotlight

Destin

1927
Movie
88 min
French

Insights

IMDb8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes94% (Critics), 95% (Audience)
Metacritic98/100
Google Users95%
Director: Buster Keaton, Clyde BruckmanGenres: Comedy, Action, Adventure, Romance, War

Plot Summary

During the American Civil War, Confederate engineer Johnnie Gray's beloved steam engine, The General, is stolen by Union spies. Johnnie, initially rejected by the army, embarks on a daring solo mission to rescue both his train and his sweetheart, Annabelle Lee, who has also been taken by the enemy. His pursuit leads to a series of thrilling and comedic chases across enemy lines.

Critical Reception

Initially met with a lukewarm reception and a poor box office, 'The General' has since been re-evaluated as a masterpiece of silent cinema and one of Buster Keaton's finest works. It is widely praised for its innovative stunts, intricate set pieces, and Keaton's signature deadpan comedic performance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its breathtaking practical stunts and engineering marvels.

  • Lauded as a pinnacle of silent film comedy and adventure.

  • Recognized for Buster Keaton's unparalleled physical comedy and masterful direction.

Google audience: Audiences consistently praise 'The General' for its thrilling action sequences, historical accuracy in depicting the era, and Buster Keaton's genius comedic timing. Many highlight the film's enduring appeal and its status as a timeless classic.

Awards & Accolades

Ranked among the greatest films of all time by numerous critics' polls and organizations, including the American Film Institute (AFI). Nominated for the AFI's 100 Years... 100 Movies list.

Fun Fact

The film was incredibly expensive to make, with many of its elaborate stunts involving real trains and expensive set destruction. One of the most famous stunts, the bridge collapse, cost $42,000 at the time (equivalent to over $1 million today) and was a genuine, non-rehearsed event captured on film.

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