Final answer:
Buster Keaton's stoicism and stunt performance in 'Sherlock Jr.' contrasts with Charlie Chaplin's emotional and humorous portrayal in 'The Circus', highlighting Keaton's athleticism and Chaplin's sympathetic underdog image.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing and contrasting the star images of Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin through specific scenes from their movies Sherlock Jr. and The Circus, distinct differences emerge. Keaton, known for his stoic persona and physical prowess, shines in his movie Sherlock Jr. where his character displays a miraculous ability to perform stunts with precision and a deadpan expression, contributing to his nickname, 'The Great Stone Face.'
On the other hand, Chaplin's The Circus includes a memorable mirror maze chase sequence where his character, the Tramp, navigates the confusing space with humor and agility. The Tramp's sad-eyed and empathetic demeanor elicits audience sympathy and laughter through his pantomime and physical comedy.
The contrast between Keaton's mastery of physical space and machinery, and Chaplin's emotional resonance and underdog charm clearly defines their unique star images. While Keaton's stoicism and athleticism draw admiration, Chaplin's vulnerability and resilience resonate on a more emotional level, allowing him to connect deeply with his audience.