the sound of silence
Oct 18 '00
Films did not have to have sound in order to be great. This should be obvious. There are many great silent films, here are the ones that I have appreciated most.
5. Wings
A Beautiful and surprisingly enjoyable war film. I did not expect a 2+ hour silent film could be good, but this was. It is no masterpiece, but it is a treat in it's extreme simplicity. The story has become cliche over the years (made in 1928 and the first Oscar-winner for best picture), but I still recommend it.
4. The Gold Rush
One of Chaplin's most beloved achievements. Though not his best, it works on many levels, as most of his films do. Many jokes that are now legendary, including the dancing potatoes, and other gags that have been recycled over the years (ie: the man being so hungry he pictures his partner as a large, walking chicken), Charlie Chaplin is one of the funniest filmmakers ever to grace the screen and he deserves all the brilliant compliments he receives.
3. Modern Times
Another famous Charlie Chaplin masterpiece. Foreseeing a technical revolution, it pokes fun at technology and it's consequences. Shocking in how hilarious it is, it is certainly an American classic.
2. The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari
A black, surreal story of obsession and horror. It manages to be terrifying without gore. It's set design is graphically warped and adds emphases to the already spooky atmosphere. A German expressionist film. One of the greatest films of it's era.
1. City Lights
My favorite Chaplin film. A funny and also touching story of a man who falls in love with a blind woman. He is one of the few comedians of his time who could have a combination of comedy and drama and still manage to make a genuinely beautiful story where you both tear up and laugh. His now legendary boxing gag withholds in time and is as hilarious today as it ever could have been.
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Epinions.com ID:
Orson_Wilder
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Member: Orson Wilder
Location: Rhode Island
Reviews written: 16
Trusted by: 1 member
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