search
Get Started
search
The High Sign - Silent Film
zoom_in Click to enlarge

The High Sign

description The High Sign Overview

The High Sign is a 1921 silent comedy short film written, directed by, and starring Buster Keaton. The narrative follows Keaton's character as he becomes entangled with a criminal organization, leading to an elaborate trick-house finale. The film is notable for its inventive set design and represents one of Keaton's earliest solo comedic works.

help The High Sign FAQ

Who directed The High Sign (1921)?

The High Sign was co-directed by Buster Keaton and Eddie Cline. It is one of Keaton's earliest solo short comedies, made shortly after his departure from Fatty Arbuckle's film unit.

What is the plot of The High Sign?

Buster Keaton plays a man who gets a job at an amusement park shooting gallery and becomes entangled with a criminal gang called the Blinking Buzzards. The film culminates in a famous sequence set in a trick house filled with hidden doors, trapdoors, and sliding panels.

Why was The High Sign held back from release?

Buster Keaton reportedly was unsatisfied with The High Sign and held it back, releasing his short "The Goat" first as his solo debut instead. The High Sign was eventually released later in 1921 after the success of his other shorts gave him more confidence.

Where can I watch The High Sign (1921)?

As a public domain film, The High Sign is widely available on streaming platforms including YouTube and various silent film archives. It has also been included in Buster Keaton Blu-ray and DVD collections from distributors like Kino Lorber.

Reviews & Comments

Write a Review

rate_review

Be the first to review

Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.

Save to your list

Save your favorites and follow how their scores change over time.

Save favorites
Track changes
Compare scores

Already have an account? Sign in

Compare Items

See how they stack up against each other

Comparing
VS
Select 1 more item to compare