Original Score for Buster Keaton’s Sherlock Junior
In 1924, Sherlock Junior made its mark as one of Buster Keaton’s most inventive films. Now, in celebration of its 100th anniversary, Tom Roberts has crafted an original score to bring a fresh musical perspective to this timeless classic.
Read more about Tom's inspiration, and his writing process below.
Composing for Sherlock Junior
Composing for Sherlock Junior was a joy, particularly because its forty-five-minute runtime allowed me to dive deep into the score in a short period. Interestingly, I came down with a mild case of COVID-19 right as I began working on it, which forced me to cancel my other commitments. This unexpected isolation provided the perfect window to focus fully on the project. I completed the score within two weeks and spent another week learning to perform it. I never cut myself any slack when composing, and Sherlock Junior was no exception—each piece is a challenge, so dedicating that week to practice was essential.
““In the end, everything is a gag.””
Charlie Chaplin’s approach is always an inspiration for me. In Sherlock Junior, I wanted to use music to elevate the film’s playful yet complex storytelling, capturing the essence of Keaton’s humor and the fast-paced, dreamlike sequences.
““You have to be funny, but it’s not enough to have jokes. You have to build the music to the exact moment.””
Stalling’s words reflect my own approach to silent film scoring—timing is everything. In Sherlock Junior, the music not only underscores the gags but also highlights Keaton’s masterful timing, weaving in and out of the film’s most outrageous and tender moments. The score had to match the film’s rhythm perfectly, amplifying its whimsical spirit while enhancing its emotional depth.
Booking info
If you're interested in bringing Tom’s original score for Sherlock Junior to your event, contact him at 917.627.9594 or via email.