Film and orchestral performance in Rijeka: General Buster Keaton accompanied by the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra

A unique cinematic experience is set to take place in Rijeka on Wednesday, July 1st, when Buster Keaton’s silent film classic The General will be screened with live orchestral accompaniment by the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra. The event, organized as part of the Rijeka Summer Nights series, will occur at the playground of the Economic School Mie Mirković in Rijeca, starting at 9 PM. This special screening marks the centenary of one of the most iconic and influential films of the silent era.

The General, released in 1926, is widely regarded as the pinnacle of silent cinema and one of the most significant achievements in the history of cinematography. Directed by and starring Buster Keaton, the film follows Johnny Gray, a locomotive engineer played by Keaton himself, during a thrilling chase during the American Civil War—specifically, his pursuit of a stolen locomotive and his beloved girlfriend. Inspired by real-life events and memoirs from William Pittenger in 1889, the film has since been recognized as a masterpiece of slapstick comedy and filmmaking, even though it did not achieve commercial success upon its initial release. Later generations of critics and historians have ranked it among the greatest films of all time.

What sets The General apart is Keaton's physical comedic performances, meticulously choreographed action sequences, and spectacular stunt work executed without the use of modern special effects. One of the most famous scenes involves the destruction of a locomotive off a bridge, captured in a single shot and once considered the most expensive single shot in the history of silent film. These elements contribute to the film’s enduring appeal and historical significance.

The live orchestral accompaniment aims to return The General to its original presentation context, mirroring how audiences would have experienced it in cinemas of the 1920s. By combining the film with live music, the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Karl Hubak adds a new dimension to Keaton’s classic, transforming the evening into a unique cultural experience under the open sky.

Tickets for the event are available for purchase at the ticket counters of the Ivan Pl. Zajc National Theatre and Art Cinema. They can also be bought through online platforms such as CoreEvent and Moje karte. Members of the Art Cinema Film Club receive a 50 percent discount on regular ticket prices when purchasing tickets at the Art Cinema counter or via CoreEvent.

This event highlights the continued relevance of silent cinema and the importance of preserving early film heritage through innovative presentations. It brings together elements of film, music, and history to create an immersive experience for attendees. As part of the broader Rijeka Summer Nights festival, the screening contributes to the city’s reputation as a hub for cultural and artistic activities, offering residents and visitors alike an opportunity to engage with classic cinema in a novel and memorable way.

The collaboration between Art Cinema and the Ivan Pl. Zajc National Theatre underscores the growing interest in interdisciplinary cultural projects that blend traditional art forms with contemporary presentation methods. Such initiatives not only honor the legacy of past filmmakers but also encourage new ways of experiencing classical works through modern interpretations. With this event, Rijeka continues to position itself as a dynamic center for both local and international cultural expression.