Frank Barnes
Actor
About Frank Barnes
Frank Barnes was a minor actor during the silent film era who appeared in Buster Keaton's classic comedy 'The General' in 1926. His role in this celebrated Civil War film appears to be his only known screen credit, suggesting he may have been a bit player or extra rather than a featured performer. Like many actors of the silent period who did not achieve stardom, detailed biographical information about Barnes is scarce in historical records. His participation in what is now considered one of the greatest films ever made places him among the many unsung contributors to classic Hollywood cinema. The lack of extensive documentation about his career is typical of supporting performers from this era who worked primarily in uncredited or minor roles. His brief film career appears to have been confined to the single year of 1926, coinciding with the peak of the silent era.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in Buster Keaton's 'The General' (1926)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Frank Barnes' contribution to cinema, while minimal in scope, is part of the larger tapestry of silent film history. His appearance in 'The General' connects him to one of the most critically acclaimed films of the 1920s and to Buster Keaton's legacy. Though his role was likely small, he represents the countless supporting actors and bit players who were essential to creating the rich cinematic worlds of classic Hollywood films. These performers, though often forgotten by history, were the backbone of studio productions during the golden age of silent cinema.
Lasting Legacy
Frank Barnes' legacy is tied exclusively to his participation in 'The General,' now recognized as one of the greatest films ever made. While his individual contribution may have been minor, he is part of the enduring artistic achievement of this Buster Keaton masterpiece. His name appears in the film's credits, ensuring his place in cinema history, however small. Like many supporting actors from the silent era, his story illustrates how film history is built not just on stars, but on the collective efforts of hundreds of performers.
Who They Inspired
As a minor actor with only one known film credit, Frank Barnes did not have a significant influence on other performers or the film industry. His influence is limited to his participation in a film that has influenced generations of filmmakers and comedians through Buster Keaton's groundbreaking work in 'The General.'
Off Screen
Very little is known about Frank Barnes' personal life, as he was a minor actor who appeared in only one known film during the silent era.
Did You Know?
- Frank Barnes appeared in what is now considered one of the greatest films ever made, Buster Keaton's 'The General'
- His entire known film career consists of a single year: 1926
- The General was added to the National Film Registry in 1989 for being 'culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant'
- Despite appearing in a classic film, virtually no biographical information about Barnes survives
- Like many silent era bit players, Barnes likely worked as an extra or minor character actor
- The General was not a commercial success upon release but has since been recognized as a masterpiece
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Frank Barnes?
Frank Barnes was an American actor during the silent film era who appeared in Buster Keaton's 1926 film 'The General.' His known film career was limited to this single production, suggesting he was likely a bit player or extra rather than a featured performer.
What films is Frank Barnes best known for?
Frank Barnes is known exclusively for his appearance in 'The General' (1926), Buster Keaton's celebrated Civil War comedy that is now considered one of the greatest films ever made. This appears to be his only known film credit.
When was Frank Barnes born and when did he die?
Unfortunately, birth and death dates for Frank Barnes are not available in historical records. This is common for minor actors and bit players from the silent era who did not achieve stardom.
What awards did Frank Barnes win?
Frank Barnes did not receive any known awards or nominations for his work. As a minor actor in a single film, he would not have been considered for major industry recognition during his brief career.
What was Frank Barnes' acting style?
Given his minor role in a single film and the lack of detailed information about his performance, Frank Barnes' specific acting style cannot be determined. As a supporting actor in a Buster Keaton comedy, he likely contributed to the film's physical comedy and ensemble performances.
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Films
1 film
