Bedford Playhouse welcomes back musician and historian Ben Model providing live piano accompaniment to the classic silent comedy The General, Buster Keaton’s acknowledged masterpiece. This feature-length film contains some of the most iconic scenes in silent film comedy history, all done without the aid of visual effects. Recommended for ages 3 to 93.

Buster Keaton’s The General is not simply one of the greatest silent comedies ever made, it is one of the greatest films—of any era. In restaging the true story of one man’s journey behind enemy lines to reclaim his captured locomotive during the Civil War, Keaton stages a series of complex chases, using lumbering trains as comedic props. Keaton’s inventive mind is matched only by his physical athleticism, making The General a truly breathtaking experience.

This film contains some imagery and content of the Civil War period that is outdated and may be considered offensive.  Classic Hollywood films are available to us, in their original form, for viewing and discussion. They reflect the social context in which they were made, and invite the audience to reflect on its own values and beliefs when watching them now. These films indicate what images and stories Hollywood has deemed as acceptable, and what mainstream audiences had found appealing and entertaining fare.  Viewers are cautioned to use their own discretion.

Ben Model