Review of City Lights (1931) by Justin S — 04 Jun 2012

City Lights is not only a genius piece of film making, its one of the best films ever made and an American treasure. Charlie Chaplin is one of the most talented men I can think of, he writes, stars, and directs this movie and it all adds up into a masterpiece.

This was my first silent film to watch and soon after this I saw much more of Chaplin's work, and although its all great I still consider this to be his best work. Silent films are something some people can't stand, but for me its a breath of fresh air and makes this film unique.

The plot of the film is romantic and funny, but its telling the selfless story of the Tramp and his trying to help a blind flower girl after falling in love with her. The plot is a work of genius because we are able to understand the story without words, but with visual, and Chaplin is able to make that visual hilarious from start to finish.

I honestly did not think I would laugh at this film, but boy was I wrong, there is some seriously funny stuff in that movie and has made me a lifelong Chaplin fan. Its also a very influential story, the Tramp saves a man from killing himself and since this was based in the Depression-era there were a lot of people like this, so Chaplin was basically telling everyone to stand up and face life.

Just a perfect script, I loved it. The cast is all wonderful but it's Charlie Chaplin who steals the show (obviously). He is like a cartoon character when he plays the Tramp, just every time he is on the screen you can't help but smile.

He has perfect comedic timing and some great acting as well, and it has turned him into my favorite silent film actor and one of Americas greatest treasures. City Lights is not a film, its a work of art that should be treasured for it great comedy, incredible acting, great directing, and a ending that will melt the heart of everyone.