How the Studio System Ruined Buster Keaton

Buster Keaton is remembered today as one of the greatest silent film comedians of all time. But when sound arrived, Hollywood’s studio system didn’t just ignore his talents — it actively stripped him of control, sidelined his creativity, and left his career “hung out to dry.”

In this video, I take a closer look at Keaton’s difficult transition into the sound era, the studio decisions that derailed his momentum, and why this period is often overlooked compared to his silent masterpieces.

Join me as I revisit a forgotten chapter in film history — when one of cinema’s greatest innovators was nearly silenced by the very system that should have celebrated him.

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Written, Presented & Compiled by Joe Ramoni
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Buster Keaton's MGM features are owned by MGM and Turner Broadcasting.

Buster Keaton's Columbia shorts are owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Buster Keaton's Educational shorts are owned by Kino.

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