WHO IS HE?
The Little Tramp: downtrodden optimist and everyman. Director, Writer, Actor, Producer, Composer. Political commentator attacked by the establishment. International icon.
WHO IS HE?
The Little Tramp: downtrodden optimist and everyman. Director, Writer, Actor, Producer, Composer. Political commentator attacked by the establishment. International icon.
WHY SHOULD WE CARE?
Because Charlie Chaplin's silent films changed the face of slapstick forever and put comedy on the movie map. His brand of social commentary may look slightly naive, even sentimental, to 21st century eyes, but with it, Chaplin made a place for the little man on the big screen. He was the first globally successful director to mix comedy with a social message.
If his social conscience doesn't impress, try the fact that The Little Tramp persona made Chaplin the most famous man in the world and the highest-paid performer of his day.
WHEN WAS HE WORKING?
At the dawn of Hollywood. First film Making A Living (1914), last A Countess From Hong Kong with Marlon Brando and Sophia Loren, made when Chaplin was 77. Huge output in 1910s and 1920s, greatly slowed down in 1930s, spending roughly five years on each film.
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