Buster Keaton: "One Week" and "The Scarecrow" Analysis Plan
Use of Film Form: -mostly long shots (to frame large scale stunts, set pieces and gags); especially in One Week -exaggerated performances -long takes (to display large scale stunts, set pieces and gags in their entirety) -mostly invisible editing Buster Keaton's Film Persona: -working class/rural American -relatable everyman -aspirational/American dream -clumsy/eccentric -outsider -hopeless romantic Representations: -traditional/outdated gender roles •man does hard, blue collar work as wife supports him/does more "feminine work" •man must fend off rival suitor for wife's hand/love -hard-working blue collar working class •builder in One Week, farmer in The Scarecrow Silent Comedy Techniques: -Large scale stunts/action scenes at climax •house spinning in "One Week", and chase in "The Scarecrow" -slapstick comedy through exaggerated performance, set-up and pay-off -post-modern techniques •fourth wall break in "One Week"; cameraman covers l