Review of Shoulder Arms (1918) by John A — 19 Sep 2009
One of Chaplin's best early short films, Shoulder Arms relies on its fantastic camerawork and a patient style that focuses more on characterization than gags. Chaplin's gag on the ladder probably works best of all the comic moments, but the rich portrayal of trench warfare and rubbled homes make this one of the more visually engaging of Chaplin's early films.
The ending rings a bit hollow though. I would have bumped it a notch had it ended about 60 seconds earlier.
This review of Shoulder Arms (1918) was written by John A on 19 Sep 2009.
Shoulder Arms has generally received positive reviews.
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