- Our Hospitality is probably best known as the other Buster Keaton film that involves a train, but it is much more than just a template for his later work. In fact, the film is an immensely entertaining early offering from one of the funniest icons of the silent era. The story follows the misadventures of Willie McKay (Buster Keaton), who unexpectedly ends up in the middle of a lopsided family feud. In this case, the men of the Canfield family all want to kill McKay, whose own priority is to woo the young Miss Canfield (Natalie Talmadge). Amusingly, McKay is completely unaware for nearly half of the film that the love of his life is a Canfield, making the family's failed attempts to kill him all the more amusing. Better still, the eventual realization of his predicament sparks off a chase scene that is among the most impressive ever put on film.
- Like much of Keaton's work, Our Hospitality is equal parts dazzling stunt pieces and understated humor. The waterfall scene, in particular, features an absolutely stunning amount of coordination and raw physical talent (in addition to some incredibly convincing set work). The train sequences, too, are very impressive, particularly since the train looks as though it may fall apart at any moment (which it eventually does). My favorite moments in the film, however, may be the quiet jokes. When McKay's dog greets him at the station, the look on Keaton's face is absolutely priceless. Likewise, McKay's attempt to prolong a farewell at the Canfield residence is hilarious without involving anything more than a few handshakes. It's a rare comedian who can deliver amazing action and restrained humor with equal skill.
- Talmadge and Keaton were married when they made this film, and Talmadge was several months pregnant.
