Review of Limelight (1952) by John S — 08 Feb 2012

Honestly, it's less of the comedy you might expect from Chaplin. Instead, you are given a truly beautiful tragedy. The script is so integrally smart in it's complexities and parallels within itself and within Chaplin's own life.

The dialogue is utter mind-boggling poetry, and it works so well in the contours of the story arc. The humor is a bit disappointing considering Chaplin's iconic comedy and relies more in the ironies and the amusing charm that Charlie can never shake away from.

But it's better not to consider this a comedy at all, but more of a drama. In that aspect, it's practically perfect. But Charlie is a magical delight as always. Everything from the almost Shakespearean eloquence in his speech, to the sharp gripping expression behind his eyes, to the brightness in his smile, Charlie is a grandmaster.

Throw in Charlie's magical singing and dancing, and the comedy in his stage performances, and even the brilliance in the writing and direction, Charlie Chaplin is officially the most talented person to honor the silver screen.

The sheer power in it's emotion and pathos is staggering. It's a truly powerful experience, and most likely, Chaplin's most thought-provoking film.