Watch SlapHappy: Keystone Studios

SlapHappy: Keystone Studios is a documentary film that explores the history of Keystone Studios, a major player in the early days of American cinema. Using rare archival footage and interviews with film historians and experts, the film takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour of the studio's production process, from scriptwriting and casting to filming and editing.

The documentary is divided into chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of Keystone's output. The film's opening chapter provides an overview of the studio's origins, tracing its evolution from a small, independent production company to a major force in the film industry. Subsequent chapters explore Keystone's collaborations with some of the most famous names in film history, including Charlie Chaplin, Mabel Normand, and Buster Keaton.

One of the documentary's main themes is the fast-paced, frenzied style of filmmaking that Keystone became known for. The studio operated on a tight schedule and often produced multiple films at once, with directors and actors racing to complete scenes in record time. The film includes numerous examples of Keystone's signature slapstick humor, including scenes of actors slipping on banana peels, getting hit in the face with pies, and engaging in elaborate chase sequences.

Another central theme of the film is the role of gender in Keystone's films. The studio was famous for its so-called "Keystone Girls," a group of young actresses who often played the hapless love interests of the male leads. The documentary examines the sexism inherent in these depictions and the work of actresses like Mabel Normand, who tried to push back against these stereotypes and create more complex, empowered female characters.

Overall, SlapHappy: Keystone Studios is a fascinating look at a pivotal period in film history. Through its use of rarely-seen archival footage and interviews with experts, the documentary offers a comprehensive and engaging overview of Keystone's output and its impact on American cinema. Whether you're a film buff or simply interested in exploring the evolution of comedy on the big screen, this documentary is a must-see.

SlapHappy: Keystone Studios is a 2005 action movie with a runtime of 26 minutes.