Chris J
MOVIE REVIEW
Three Ages
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 1923, 2023 Eureka Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 10m
Director(s): Buster Keaton, Edward F. Cline
Writer(s): Clyde Bruckman (story and titles,) Joseph A. Mitchell (story and titles,) Jean C. Havez (story and titles,) Buster Keaton (uncredited)
Cast: Buster Keaton, Margaret Leahy, Wallace Beery, Joe Roberts, Lillian Lawrence, Kewpie Morgan
Where To Watch: available August 21, 2023, pre-order here www.eurekavideo.co.uk, or www.amazon.co.uk
RAVING REVIEW: In the world of comedy cinema, THREE AGES gleams as a unique creation. More than merely a reflection of its predecessors, it is a testament to Buster Keaton's genius, a bold foray into new comedic territories that embraces history, humor, and heart-stopping stunts. You haven't experienced who Buster Keaton is until you've experienced this film. Embarking on a whimsical journey, Keaton, the director and star of THREE AGES, plays with time and space, steering us through different epochs with a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Whether he's wrestling with dinosaurs in the Stone Age, challenging gladiators in Ancient Rome, or bustling about in 1923, Keaton's lively storytelling keeps you both entertained and engaged.
But THREE AGES is not just a series of disconnected sketches. It's a carefully crafted film that links three narratives, each a vivid tapestry of love, rivalry, and triumph. Despite being set in vastly different periods, each story resonates with the same emotional heartbeat. Love's quest and rivalry's challenge always seem to stay the same, no matter the era.
Keaton's triumph in THREE AGES lies in the seamlessness of its storytelling. The narrative threads could quickly have unraveled into a tangled mess, but instead, they weave together with grace and fluidity. Keaton's persistent and clever character faces his rival Wallace Beery in a series of duels that underscore love's inevitable victory over all obstacles. These victories, achieved through strategy and sheer luck, punctuate the film with a consistent and uplifting message.
The film's highlight, depicting the 1923 era, showcases Keaton's signature visual comedy and stunt work. Here, Keaton's transformation from his earlier cartoon-like style into a more nuanced and coherent approach is evident. It's a sign of what's to come, a hint at future greatness that leaves you craving more.
Not only does THREE AGES break cinematic norms with Keaton's distinctive portrayal of female characters, but it also shines in the hands of co-director Edward F. Cline and a brilliant supporting cast. Together, they elevate the film, reshaping traditional molds and offering refreshing breaks from conventional tropes.
THREE AGES is a comedic gem transcending its time, offering a lively and insightful exploration of human nature, customs, and evolution. It's a dance between intricate storytelling and visual flamboyance that keeps you entertained and thoughtful. Whether you're a casual viewer or a devotee of the silver screen, Keaton's unyielding brilliance shines through, making this film an unmissable experience. It's an essential addition to any collection, a joyful celebration of visual comedy, and a showcase of cinema's endless creativity.
SPECIAL EDITION BLU-RAY FEATURES:
– Limited Edition slipcase (First Print Run of 2000 copies only)
– 1080p presentation on Blu-ray from a new restoration by the Cohen Film Collection
– Reconstructed original intertitles
– Brand new audio commentary by film historian and writer David Kalat
– This Side of Impossible – a brand new video essay by David Cairns
– Under the Flat Hat – brand new video essay by Fiona Watson
– The Six Ages of Comedy – brand new featurette based on an essay by Keaton
– Brand new interview with Ian Lavender
– Man's Genesis – 1912 short by D.W. Griffith that is parodied in Three Ages
– Video essay on the film's locations by John Bengtson
– Archival recordings of Keaton
– PLUS: A collectors booklet featuring new writing by Philip Kemp and Imogen Sara Smith
*All extras subject to change
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MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.
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Rated 3.5/5 Stars •
Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars
08/11/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Buster Keaton's first feature film is a romantic comedy parody of D. W. Griffith's 1916 film Intolerance. Three stories in three different settings but have the same scenario. For a 1923 film, the visual effects were quite impressive. Buster Keaton did a wonderful job as the film's director and star performer. Especially when he did the most famous stunt in the film that went wrong yet he worked his way through it. It was so brilliant and clever of Buster Keaton to do that. As it was stated before, it will be stated again. Not only did he do a wonderful job as an actor in Three Ages, he also did a fantastic job as the film's director. For his first feature-length film, Buster Keaton's Three Ages is visually impressive, well executed directing, impressive acting, and quite comical.
Rated 4.5/5 Stars •
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
02/18/23
Full Review
Christopher B
Even though this was Buster Keaton's first feature film, it was later revealed to be three two-reel shorts put together in order to create a feature length film. While the pieces all work separately, seeing them together and intertwined within the confines of The Three Ages makes the experience and film richer as a whole. Not quite up there with some of Keaton's masterpieces, The Three Ages is still a fantastic comedy that is just as timeless and relevant in film history as any of his other films. Any Keaton film shows his prowess as an actor and director and showcases his amazing talent and passion in film! Highly Recommended and another great from the silent-film era!
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
10/20/22
Full Review
Ethan S
A solid three stars. There are some funny gags and sequences - particularly in the Roman storyline I found - but definitely far from Keaton's best.
Rated 3/5 Stars •
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
09/29/20
Full Review
william k
Buster Keaton comedy has quite an original plot and is fast-paced, but only mildly funny or entertaining.
Rated 3/5 Stars •
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
03/31/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Diretor, ator, produtor e roteirista, Keaton sempre com seu jeito sisudo conquistava o público como resultado indireto de sua competência em narrar suas aventuras em diferentes histórias e, ao contrário de Charles Chaplin, com diferentes personagens.
cinetenisverde.com.br
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
02/21/23
Full Review
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