Even people who don't understand English can enjoy Chaplin's films because they are almost silent. It isn't what he says that makes us laugh. His comedy doesn't depend upon words or language, but on the little actions, which mean the same thing to people all over the world.
Chaplin raises his thick black eyebrow or hells his eyes. He straightens his coat or swings his walking stick in the air. He hides behind a fat lady or creeps under a table to escape from his enemies. Trying to be brave, he faints away on the floor. He pretends to be what he is not and never could be a rich, successful, important man. It is the secret of Chaplin's huge success.
He discovered the character of the little tramp almost by accident. As young mem, he and his brother traveled to American in a small company of actors and acted in various cites. One day Charles was invited to join a new company that was making film comedies. He accepted an American company that was making film comedies and soon became popular. Very soon he made dozens of short films. But it was in his second film that he wore the clothes that made his reputation: black hat, tight coat, baggy trousers, huge shoes, moustache and walking stick. He intended simply to make people laugh. But the odd disguises made him look both comic and sad.
His appearance was a popular succes, right from the beginning. But his first pictures hadn't much story. They were full of action. The little man played fast-moving games of hide-and-seek with his enemies, racing down city streets, jumping on trains, and floating down rivers. |
