An event has been set for Canton that will give audiences a taste of what films were like in their early days.
The Canton Palace Theatre is presenting a special showing of the film “Our Hospitality,” starring the legendary comedian Buster Keaton. The film is silent, and will be accompanied Jay Spencer playing the theater's Kilgen Organ.
“Our Hospitality” was filmed in 1923, and unlike most of the slapstick comedies of the time, used humor and sight gags as one part of a coherent, dramatic story. Keaton based the script on the actual Hatfield-McCoy feud, which took place between 1878 and 1890, but set it much earlier, in the 1930s.
Although he moved the action back several decades, his attention to detail was meticulous, and he shot most of the film on location, both elements that were not usual in films of the time. The story follows the misadventures of Willie McKay (Keaton), who falls in love with Virginia Canfield, not knowing that their families are feuding. He manages to survive her brothers' attempts to kill him, marries his lady love, and everyone decides to put down their guns for good.
The silent movie will be shown at 2.00 pm on July 11, with doors opening at 1.30 pm. General admission is $7, and the film is suitable for all ages. Brochure printing can create an informative booklet about unusual events like this.
