Review of Modern Times (1936) by Johnny T — 31 Oct 2012
An ungainly masterpiece, but Chaplin's ungainliness is something one can grow fond of. Chaplin's sentimental politics and peerless comic invention dovetailed more perfectly in this film than in any other he made. Charlie Chaplin finally got around to acknowledging the 20th century in this 1936 film, which substitutes machine-age gags for the fading Victoriana of his other work. Consequently, it's the coldest of his major features, though no less brilliant for it. Chaplin's sentimental politics and peerless comic invention dovetailed more perfectly in this film than in any other he made. Remains Chaplin's most sustained burlesque of authority. The picture is grand fun and sound entertainment, though silent. One of the many remarkable things about Charlie Chaplin is that his films continue to hold up, to attract and delight audiences.
VERDICT: "Instant Classic" - [Positively Acclaimed Reaction] Usually I give this rating to a movie that I believe is absolutely outstanding and has little to no flaws in it. Audiences, who haven't seen this film, must see it right now! (Films that are rated 4.5 or 5 stars).
This review of Modern Times (1936) was written by Johnny T on 31 Oct 2012.
Modern Times has generally received very positive reviews.
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