Charlie Chaplin and the Making of Modern Film

Charlie Chaplin, an actor so famous the world over he hardly needs an introduction, was also one of the major contributors to the development of modern film.

Chaplin had an aptitude for expressive acting clearly conveying his emotions and intentions in the days before sound was added to film.

His choice to focus on expressions and non-verbal communication later became a central part of modern film.

Many actors still hail Chaplin as an influence including such individuals as Gene Wilder and more recently Johnny Depp.

Born into an acting family, Chaplin dreamed of acting himself and managed to succeed beyond his wildest dreams creating a persona known the world over.

Having a unique charisma behind the camera, Chaplin was able to capture the underdog on the silver screen conveying a memorable physical presence through both a skillful and expressive display of emotions.

Chaplin’s explorations on screen brought out the human condition and transformed cinema turning film from an interesting novelty into a serious art-form that addressed real-world issues with multi-dimensional characters.

His most famous character, The Tramp, with his small coat and large shoes, not only brought laughter to his audience but also had contemporary resonance during the depression because, like his audience, The Tramp was hard pressed to afford anything better.

Although resistant to incorporating sound into his movies, Chaplin eventually made the plunge with his first full-sound movie, The Great Dictator, which among other things, marked Chaplin’s foray into politics on screen lampooning Hitler and making an on screen plea for an end to fascism.