One Week

One Week, released in 1920, is a sterling example of the silent film era, effortlessly combining slapstick humor with innovative filmmaking techniques to create a timeless comedy that has remained relevant and beloved over a century later. At the heart of this two-reel comedy classic is Hollywood's renowned silent movie superstar, Buster Keaton, whose effortless display of physical comedy is transcendent.

The film centers around Buster Keaton as 'The Groom' and Sybil Seely as 'The Bride.' They are newlyweds who receive a portable house as a wedding gift. Eager to set up their domestic lives together, they embark on a venture of building their new home. As is often the case with silent era comedies, this seemingly simple process spirals into a series of misadventures, leading to some genuinely comical and even nail-biting moments. The gladly received gift proves to be a headache for the couple as they struggle to follow the complex and confusing instructions it came with. Buster Keaton's shenanigans combined with Sybil Seely's light-hearted performance make this straightforward narrative a roller-coaster ride, packed with plenty of laughs.

Buster and Sybil are absolutely delightful in their roles, deftly handling physical comedy while also managing to convey genuine emotion through their expressive eyes and body language – a crucial quality required in the era of silent movies. The audience can feel their highs and lows - the triumphs and the setbacks - as they navigate their way around constructing their new home, offering much in the way of laughter and engaging storytelling. Buster Keaton's endearing characterization coupled with his infamous deadpan expression makes him a loveable lead whose misfortunes make for some classic comedy.

Amid the lighthearted narrative, the film also introduces an element of rivalry and tension through the character of Joe Roberts, who strenuously tries to come between our lovely couple. His constant meddling adds another layer of humor and conflict to the storyline.

One Week not only offers an outlet for Keaton's naturally comedic eccentricities but also showcases his prowess as a filmmaker. The film's visual storytelling is indubitably innovative for its time. What sets the film apart, is its emphasis on real-life slapstick that relies on practical effects, real stunts, and clever cinematography. Keaton's fearless commitment to physical performance is a wonder to behold, making even the most outrageous predicaments believable within the world of this film.

One of the true stars of One Week, alongside its cast, is undoubtedly the portable house. It practically forms one of the central characters in the film, offering a fertile ground for comedy. Its unpredictable quirks, and the countless misadventures that unfold as the couple attempt to build it, are endlessly creative and amusing, providing a treasure trove of comic material.

In essence, One Week is more than a mere comedy film from the silent movie era. It is a seamless amalgamation of comedy and drama, interjected with stunts, mischievous rivalries, and chaos created by an ever-surprising portable house. It is a showcase of Buster Keaton's wide-ranging talents, both in front of and behind the camera. The awe-inspiring physical stunts, combined with well-timed humor, make it an enduring gem from the golden age of silent cinema.

Anyone with an appreciation for early cinema, comedy, or simply a fondness for Keaton's brilliant physical performance, should undoubtedly give One Week a watch. This timeless masterpiece is perfect for all ages, and its charm has not dimmed in the slightest even after a century of its initial release.