Chaplin Essay, Research Paper

Chaplin?s New Gem

Mordaunt Hall, a reporter from the New York Times, refers to Charlie Chaplin as a ?Great host of spectators.? In his review of Chaplin?s new film, ?The Gold Rush?. Not even the scorching heat could keep the public from seeing this spectacular flick. New Yorkers swarmed to the theatres to view the new film. The excitement of the moviegoers was abundantly present at the Mark Strand Theatre. The crowd applauded Chaplin as he took his seat in the heart of the theatre. Hall describes Chaplin as being very nervous and emotional through out the showing of the film, but at the same time very excited with the joy that the viewers portrayed. (Hall B2)

Beneath the non-stop ludicrous situations in the show, there were several characteristics of a beautiful drama. Hall mentions that Chaplin?s personal life was a big part of the film. Including everything from Chaplin?s hungry days in London to the many women that crushed his heart. The audience was on a rollercoaster of emotions. One moment they would be laughing and the next they would be drenched with tears of compassion for the small pathetic character on the screen.

Along with Charlie Chaplin, Georgia Hale (as Georgia), Mack Swain (as Big Jim), and Malcom Waite (as the Villain), played their roles just as beautifully. In Hall?s words, ?A most natural Performance.? (Hall B2)

?Here is a comedy that streaks of poetry, pathos, tenderness, linked with brusqueness and boisterousness.? Proclaims Hall. ?The Gold Rush? has established itself to be the gem of all Chaplin Productions, and has proven to be a ?must see? movie! (Hall B2)

Works Cited

Hall, Mordaunt. ?Charlie Chaplin?s New Comedy.? New York Times Company, 17 Aug. 1925: B2