Buster Keaton’s inspired energy and inventive physical comedy dazzle in this hilarious, heart-warming comedy.

Bill Senior (Scottish-born Ernest Torrence) is the formidable, down-to-earth captain of a rundown paddle steamer who hasn’t seen his son since he was a baby. He’s hoping for a strapping lad to help with the business but when Junior (Keaton) shows up, fresh-faced from college and carrying a ukulele, the gruff old timer’s hopes are dashed. Junior sets about trying to live up to his dad’s expectations without success, until a cyclone hits and the weedy loser gets a chance to prove himself. Brilliant gags, iconic set pieces and a tender-hearted father-son theme mark this as one of Keaton’s very best.

This popular Jeely Jar show starts with the legendary HippFest heids and bahookies competition for all the audience.

Dir. Charles Reisner, Buster Keaton | US | 1928 | 1h 9m | cert U

With: Buster Keaton, Ernest Torrence, Marion Byron, Tom McGuire

Performing live: John Sweeney (piano)

Screening material courtesy of Eureka