What is amazing in the history of the cinema is those works of art that get produced under less-than-ideal circumstances. CITIZEN KANE could fit into this category, so could GREED, even CASABLANCA. But perhaps one of the most significant is Buster Keaton's masterwork, THE CAMERAMAN.
Due to the inflated rental costs and poor distribution that Keaton's previous three films had through United Artists, Buster Keaton Productions was forced to close down, and Keaton lost all creative control and took a job as performer only at MGM, Hollywood's largest studio. Reluctant to take direction and perform material written by others, he fought the studio tooth and nail to get the film made his way. His first film there also became, interestingly enough, perhaps his most all-round most satisfying motion picture of his career.
In watching THE CAMERAMAN, I was struck particularly by the brilliance and sheer number of gags. In addition, Keaton was supported by a very talented cast, not least of all former Mack Sennett clown Harry Gribbon. The film is filled with memorable set-pieces (the entire scene at the pool, especially in the bathhouse, is my favorite).
This film is highly recommended to fans of film comedy, and the lost art of gag structure and payoff.
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