The Electric House (1922) is a short American silent comedy film co-directed by and starring legendary comedian Buster Keaton. Known for his inventive physical humor and groundbreaking use of visual gags, Keaton turns modern technology into the center of chaos in this clever and imaginative piece of early cinema. Story and Concept The plot follows a young man who, after a mix-up at a university graduation ceremony, is mistakenly awarded a diploma in electrical engineering. Wanting to impress a wealthy family, he offers to modernize their home with the latest in cutting-edge technology. The result is a mansion filled with electrified conveniences: automatic stairways, mechanized libraries, and futuristic household gadgets. At first, everything works flawlessly, impressing both the family and their guests. But when the real electrical expert discovers the mistake, he sabotages the house — turning Keaton’s carefully designed marvel into a place of mayhem. From collapsing escalators to unpredictable machinery, the house becomes a playground of slapstick invention where Keaton’s character must endure a relentless series of comedic disasters. Style and Humor Like much of Buster Keaton’s work, The Electric House blends sharp satire with astonishing visual creativity. The film showcases his ability to use technology not just as a backdrop, but as a source of physical comedy. The automated house, with its malfunctioning gadgets, is both futuristic and absurd — a reflection of society’s fascination with modern progress in the 1920s. Keaton’s stone-faced reactions to the chaos around him highlight his iconic style, while the elaborate set pieces demonstrate his genius for combining engineering with comedy. Why Watch It Audiences can expect: A fast-paced, inventive comedy filled with brilliant visual gags. A satirical take on technology and modern living. Classic Buster Keaton slapstick humor at its finest. A rare glimpse at how early cinema imagined the “house of the future.” Though only a short film, The Electric House remains a testament to Keaton’s creativity, perfectly balancing clever satire, physical comedy, and technical innovation. It is a must-see for fans of classic silent comedy and for anyone fascinated by cinema’s playful take on the rise of technology.
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