

Soft Cushions
Douglas MacLean stars as The Young Thief, who falls in love with The Girl, played by Sue Carol. Alas, the Girl has been sold into the harem of The Wazir (Albert Prisco), forcing the Thief to sneak into the palace to rescue her.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this silent short, Buster Keaton plays a young man who inherits a fortune and a harem from his uncle. He struggles with the responsibility, much to the chagrin of the women in the harem and his strict butler. The film culminates in a chaotic chase and a comedic resolution to his predicament.
Critical Reception
As a Buster Keaton short, 'Soft Cushions' is generally regarded as a minor but enjoyable entry in his filmography, showcasing his signature physical comedy and deadpan delivery, although it is not as widely celebrated as his feature films.
What Reviewers Say
- Appreciated for Keaton's consistent comedic timing and physical stunts.
- Seen as a typical, if not exceptional, example of Keaton's short film work from the era.
- The plot's premise is considered a product of its time and less substantial than his more complex features.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally find the film amusing and a good showcase for Buster Keaton's talents, though some note it lacks the depth of his longer productions.
Fun Fact
Buster Keaton himself directed this short film, further solidifying his reputation as a master of both comedic performance and direction during the silent era.
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