Buster Keaton (1895–1966) was a legendary American silent film actor, director, and stunt performer, known for his deadpan expression and innovative physical comedy. Often called "The Great Stone Face," he remained stoic in the face of chaotic and dangerous situations, making his stunts even more impressive.
Keaton performed many of his own stunts, pushing the limits of physical comedy. Some of his most famous include:
The Falling House: In Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928), a two-ton house facade falls toward him, but he stands perfectly still as it crashes around him, narrowly missing him through an open window.
The Train Chase: In The General (1926), he leaps between moving trains, rides on the front of a moving locomotive, and even uses various tools on the train while it’s in motion.
The Water Tower Scene: In Sherlock Jr. (1924), he grabs onto a water tower spout that breaks, leading him to fall into the rushing water. Keaton actually broke his neck filming this, but continued the scene.
Keaton's stunts are often considered some of the most daring and dangerous in film history.
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