Common Sense Media Review
By Charles Cassady Jr.
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Buster Keaton's famous train film glorifies the Confederacy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The General (1927)
What's the Story?
In THE GENERAL, Johnnie Gray (Buster Keaton) is a young locomotive engineer in the South at the outbreak of the American Civil War. Devoted to both his sweetheart, Annabelle (Marian Mack), and an engine nicknamed "the General," Johnnie tries repeatedly to join the Confederate army to fight but is turned down unfairly, making him an outcast with Annabelle and her family. A year later, Union spies dressed as Confederates steal the General (kidnapping Annabelle as well), intending to tear up strategically important tracks while supplying a Northern invasion. Johnnie chases after them on the rails and, with cleverness and some lucky accidents, wreaks havoc on the frustrated Yankee enemy.
Is It Any Good?
Often cited by film historians as one of the great silent films, this entertaining action comedy remains an impressive technical achievement. Keaton's trademark split-second timing and grace under pressure are in standout form as he plays The General's beleaguered, underdog hero. It's important to remember that this film used no miniature models or CGI. When a train wrecks in a particularly spectacular gag, it's the real thing, and Keaton's crew had only one chance to get it right.
But it's worth noting that this American Civil War film is nothing but respectful about the Confederacy, which fought for the continued enslavement of Black people. Similar attitudes were adopted by other films of the time, such as Little Rascals and, of course, Gone With the Wind—and none of these "classics" should be watched without serious discussion, or at least consideration for, the films' selective storytelling. What (and who) do these movies leave out, and why?
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Buster Keaton and his reputation as the greatest slapstick comic-genius of the silent film era––The General being a prominent example. Some silent cinema fans may argue that Charlie Chaplin or Harold Lloyd deserve that crown. Are you familiar with these artists? Where might you go to watch their work or learn more?
What are some of the impacts of telling a story set during the American Civil War that empathizes with the pro-slavery side? Why does this movie choose to ignore the Civil War's central issue? How should modern viewers reconcile the movie's technical achievements with this particular historical framing?
Do you like silent cinema? What are some of its unique appeals?
What are some modern-day actors who build on Keaton's legacy of physical humor? What about stars like Jim Carrey or Jackie Chan? How are the comedians similar, and what makes them each unique?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 5, 1927
- On DVD or streaming : November 11, 2008
- Cast : Buster Keaton
- Directors : Buster Keaton , Clyde Bruckman
- Studio : Kino
- Genre : Classic
- Topics : History ( War: American Civil War ) , Transportation ( Trains )
- Run time : 77 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 20, 2025
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