David Robinson (2), Kevin Brownlow

Kevin Brownlow presents a fascinating insight into this period of Keaton’s onscreen career in a presentation which includes a full screening of: So Funny it Hurt: Buster Keaton and MGM (2004). In this fascinating documentary from filmmaker Kevin Brownlow, we see Buster Keaton’s successes and struggles to achieve his Hollywood dream. It chronicles the comedian’s MGM period which lasted only five years but shows his artistic compromise with the studio, money and relationship troubles and his growing dependency on alcohol as he attempts to adjust to the arrival of the talkies. The film features fascinating rare footage, including interviews with Buster himself and is narrated by Keaton’s colleague and friend James Karen. Kevin will be in discussion with film historian and author David Robinson.