While this represents Keaton's finest work, it isn't without imperfections; I felt that it didn't have quite enough humor, and the narrative might have benefited from further elaboration. Nevertheless, its importance remains undeniable, shortcomings included. It seems as close to ideal as a film can possibly be, even with those issues present.

This film packs in a surprising amount – it’s funny, but there's also action and even a romantic element woven into this narrative set during the American Civil War. Keaton, playing "Johnnie," is considered vital to his job as a railroad engineer and therefore denied service as a soldier, which leads “Annabelle” and her family to believe he's cowardly. When Union soldiers devise a scheme to hijack his engine, "The Ge…

I was truly blown away. The sequences involving the locomotives were exceptionally well done, and Keaton’s physical performance was astonishing to witness.