This week I found myself audibly laughing at Charlie Chaplin. And through reading I found that he was the first movie star to be commercially introduced into the public. A very whimsical character indeed.
Chaplin's on-screen behavior seems quite crude oftentimes, but he wanted to further himself from this style: "I am now trying to steer clear from this sort of humor and adapt myself to a more subtle and finer shade of acting" (204 Maland). This article introduced the audience to a more humbled view of the actor known for his comedic slapstick style. Myland notes this article from 1916 from Motion Picture Magazine to further illustrate his character and how he was molding and shaping himself always being conscious of his growing popularity.
Through his start in the more vulgar acting style his image became very popular and recognizable. A critic wrote: "They are too vulgar to describe; but are too funny to pass for vulgarity when only seen (204 The Silent Cinema Reader). I feel this proves that there was a fine line that Chaplin was walking along, in being only so inappropriate but not quite enough.
Aside from Chaplin, I find Buster Keaton as an amazing individual. It makes me think that he was a pioneer of a stunts in film. Keaton is followed by his own amazing philosophy of getting the shot in one take. Many shots involving Keaton are paid tribute to in many contemporary films, truly making film a timeless mode of transportation. Definitely a comic genius.
Charlie Chaplin was actually really iconic. I enjoyed his films a lot this week. But Buster Keaton was so amazing that made me surprised.
ReplyDeleteI also really found Buster to be amazing. I agree that he really was a pioneer of stunts in film. While Charlie is an icon, I am so impressed by the naturalness of Buster's gags.
ReplyDeleteHi Helen love the post I totally agree with what you say about charlie and Buster they both are amazing when it comes to slapstick gags!
ReplyDeleteBuster idea of one take slapstick gags is awesome! And he looks handsome lol. I like the wording you have on your reflection as always.
ReplyDeleteCharlie Chaplin was one of the few actors who was able to make it in both the silent and synchronized sound eras, which is a testament to his understanding of film as it developed through new technologies. I think it is interesting that so many contemporary slapstick comedians continue to use the visual vocabulary of comedy created by people like Keaton and Chaplin during the silent era.
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