At Podium21’s annual summer film concert in the Kloosterkerk (The Hague), this year’s programme features a true centenary classic: The General (1926) by Buster Keaton. The silent film will be accompanied by live organ improvisations performed by organist Geerten van de Wetering.
The General is widely regarded as one of the greatest achievements of the silent film era. Buster Keaton not only co-directed the film but also stars as Johnny Gray, the devoted engineer of his beloved locomotive, The General. Set during the American Civil War, the story follows Johnny as he attempts to enlist in the Confederate Army. He is rejected because his work as a locomotive engineer is considered more valuable to the war effort. The decision also affects his personal life: his beloved Annabelle Lee believes he lacks courage and breaks off their engagement.
A year later, the two meet again aboard the train where Johnny is working. Disaster strikes when enemy soldiers hijack the locomotive. Faced with losing both his cherished train and the woman he loves, Johnny embarks on one of the most thrilling train chases in cinema history.
Determined to achieve maximum realism, Keaton used real locomotives wherever possible, relying very little on special effects or miniature models. He performed many of the film’s dangerous stunts himself, often putting his own safety at considerable risk. The film’s spectacular climax—featuring a specially constructed railway bridge that was destroyed in what was then one of the most expensive single scenes ever filmed—had to be captured in a single take, making it an exceptionally daring and ambitious undertaking for its time.
The General is not only a comic masterpiece but also a remarkable technical achievement. Keaton combines breathtaking visuals with impeccable comic timing, pioneering many of the techniques that would later become standard in action and adventure films.
The live organ improvisation by Geerten van de Wetering adds an extra dimension to this special screening, creating a unique dialogue between image and music. Join us for an unforgettable evening of cinematic spectacle and musical creativity, and discover how, a century after its premiere, The Generalcontinues to amaze audiences with its extraordinary stunts, visual ingenuity and timeless humour.
Tickets
https://www.ticketkantoor.nl/shop/thegeneral/en
Kloosterkerk, Den Haag
Lange Voorhout 2
Thursday 20 Augustus 2026 | 8:30pm