Review of Modern Times (1936) by Sabrina I — 02 Dec 2010

Charlie Chaplin has universal appeal, his comedy can make anyone smile in pure delight. Even today, his films bring joy to viewers of all ages. 'Modern Times' is an important film because Chaplin chose to make a silent film when sound had already completely taken over American films.

So, its one of the last silent films ever made and it's also the last film that features the famous tramp character. The film flows beautifully from one gag to another, one incident to another that the poor little 'factory worker' gets himself into.

Modern Times also has some searing social commentary underneath all the laughs. It was a perfect film of its times..during the 1930's when the depression hit America hard-the unemployment rate was extremely high and the situation was desperate.

Modern Times highlights that desperation with much force. To me, however the heart of the film is how it champions individuality and humanity. The factory worker rebels against his bosses and the dehumanizing work.

He then goes from one job to another and not really settling down or succeeding at anything. Nothing from society can hold him down or keep him from doing as he pleases. Infact, it seems as if throughout the film-Chaplin stands out from every character.

Maybe because he's Chaplin and hes playing his famous tramp character but to me it just further cemented the individualism the film was striving for. In the end, after failing at everything-he walks into the sunrise-proud and confident in himself with the whole world ahead of him unlike how he was in the beginning of the film.

Overall - Modern Times is a beautiful, enjoyable film that hasn't lost any appeal. A true classic.