Review of The Circus (1928) by David R — 15 Nov 2007
The true genius of Chaplin films is their perfect synthesis of humor and sentiment. His stories, far from being excuses for brilliant choreography and sight gags, are *human* stories. They touch a nerve that the most elaborate stunts never could.
Here, the little tramp winds up being hired for a circus and falling in love with the tyrannical ringmaster's daughter. The tramp, who never has anything but the kindest, gentlest intentions, provides and plans a way for the girl to live freely and happily--eventually by self-sacrifice.
This also has some of Chaplin's funniest gags; consider a scene where he is asked to clean the fish and ends up taking the fish out of the bowl to clean them individually! Beautiful, poignant and hilarious--with title music (movingly) sung by an aged Chaplin himself.
It also won Chaplin an Academy Award the first year of the Awards, before they were called Oscars.
This review of The Circus (1928) was written by David R on 15 Nov 2007.
The Circus has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
