What more can be said about one of Hollywood’s most accomplished, if not the most accomplished, figures of the 20th century? Chaplin, in his time, was celebrated across the world. He had his fans, detractors and imitators. He was loved and hated alike. His works are regarded as cornerstones in the innovation of film making and gave way to modern cinema as we know it today.
One thing that I noted about Chaplin was his work ethic. At one point in the documentary, it was stated that Charlie was able to film 45 movies in 17 months! While I understand that the turn around back then was a lot quicker than usual, as they were developing the new technology at hand, but good lort! At this clip, I would equate Chaplin to a tik toker churning out new content every day, or even hour. I’m not even sure if Francois Truffaut or Alfred Hitchcock had managed to make that many movies, off the top of my head.
And speaking of off the top of their head, could you imagine making some of the biggest career decisions of your life “on your way to wardrobe”? His improvisational skills were probably only matched by the masterful, Robin Williams. And what about the choice to have his character be obsessed with the camera? I think we could look at the modern landscape, with shows like The Office or Modern Family, and thank Chaplin for contributing to the idea of breaking the fourth wall.
Looking at the career that Charlie Chaplin had, makes me want to go back and revisit some of his films, especially The Kid, to look at it with a new lens or appreciation. That film must have been so cathartic to make. Having to rescue a child from being taken to an orphanage, considering his history of his own upbringing, that’s art. I really have a new appreciation for what he contributed to film.
As far as his personal life, his childhood trauma, mother being mentally ill, growing up impoverished, all must have profound effects on his output. I do have to say he sure had quite the penchant for the young ladies. Like it was kind of gross, most notably him marrying Oona O’Neill when she was 18 and he was a ripe 54 years old. I could only imagine what kind of conversations they could possibly have or outlooks on life they could share. I guess it was a different time, but I’m not going to act like that was okay. If Chaplin existed now, he probably wouldn’t be doing so much of the philandering and cradle robbing. Anyway, I digress.
Charlie Chaplin was and still is inspiring as I am going to do a tribute to his style for an upcoming project. And you can see his thumbprint all over everything we see today, maybe a little more subtle than others, but it’s there.
