There are many different DVD/Blu-Ray companies that release films to the public, but the one that is definitely the most impressive and in-depth is Criterion. Their collection consists of “important classic and contemporary films” that are brought to you in the highest quality audio and video transfers. Each movie also comes with a plethora of excellent special features that highlight the importance of the film. The Criterion Collection is aimed at film aficionados and it shows.
One motion picture released by Criterion is the 1936 Charlie Chaplin movie Modern Times. Though filmed well outside the silent period, and although considered Chaplin’s first ‘talkie’, it is mostly a silent film with some moments of speech. Chaplin reprises his iconic role as the Little Tramp, the lovable yet bumbling vagabond, which is his most famous film character.
Our black sheep enters the modern world as an assembly line worker at a factory, without much success. The regimentation of the job does not agree with him, which leads to the legendary shot of him being dragged into the machinery that he is working on. Later, he suffers a nervous breakdown and chases a woman down the street as he attempts to tweak her breasts with his two wrenches.
He is sent to a mental hospital, and when released happens to find himself leading a communist rally (he is just trying to return a dropped flag) and is sent to jail. In the back of the police van, the Little Tramp meets a stunning Gamin, played by Paulette Goddard. While in prison, we see a surprisingly modern scene that shows Chaplin unknowingly snorting cocaine that has been hidden in a salt shaker by another inmate. Once released, the Tramp and Gamin meet up and help each other survive in this crazy modern world.
Modern Times, which stars, is written, directed, composed and edited by Chaplin, shows the genius of this master auteur. His physical comedy is second to none. As well as the factory scenes mentioned above, moments such as his roller-blading around the mall and his song and dance routine while employed as a singing waiter are classic examples of the stunning talent of this man.
Chaplin also writes a beautiful story that astutely commentates on society during the depression. Look behind the physical comedy for the real meaning. With Goddard’s flawless acting in the supporting role along with the fitting musical score, this is an excellent comedy that is still as funny and relevant today as it was in 1936.
The special features contained in this two disc set include an audio commentary by a Charlie Chaplin biographer, a home movie featuring Chaplin and Goddard, an early Chaplin film called The Rink (which shows a similar scene to the roller-blade sequence), a booklet featuring two essays on the film and so much more. It is a brilliant collection that truly illustrates the film and its stars.
One might ask whether a set such as this is worth the rather steep price tag that Criterion carries (usually anywhere from $30-45 depending on the movie). If you want to splurge on a film that is beautifully restored and are someone who is interested in delving deeper into the world of unique cinema, this may be worth the investment.
Modern Times: 8.6
From now on, I will mention whether a film I review is released by Criterion.