Charles Chaplin is widely known as one of the greatest actors/directors of all time. His brilliant comedic timing and physical comedy was more than enough to entertain and amuse audiences, even in a time before audio was introduced in films. Here are my picks for the top 5 best Charlie Chaplin movies.
- The Circus (1928) (Comedy/Romance)
Chaplin is known best for his pioneering work in silent comedy, and The Circus showcases this natural talent best. Despite its age, The Circus holds up surprisingly well and is genuinely hilarious. The film follows the iconic Tramp character as he accidentally joins a circus and tries to impress one of its performers. For those new to silent films, this is definitely a great place to start.
2. The Gold Rush (1925) (Comedy/Adventure)
The same charm and comedic timing, this time in the mountains of California. Unlike most other silent Chaplin films, we follow 3 characters total, 2 of which eventually branch off, leaving us with the Tramp. The fight and struggle for food, shelter, and other necessities has never been funnier.
3. The Kid (1921) (Comedy/Drama)
Very few movies can make you laugh and cry within a 59 minute runtime. More wonderful comedy, this time sprinkled into a genuinely emotional and moving story. When this film came out, it was revolutionary on a technological scale. Over 100 years later, it’s still a beautiful, heartwarming movie for the whole family.
4. City Lights (1931) (Romance/Comedy)
Despite its spot on the list, City Lights is a masterful film and arguably the most dramatic and simultaneously funny of Chaplin’s career. City Lights is the ultimate chronicle of the Tramp character, and has one of the most iconic endings in all of cinema.
5. Modern Times (1936) (Comedy/Romance)
This was the last appearance of the Tramp, and the last silent film of Chaplin’s career. While it is a very funny silent comedy, it was also a way for Chaplin to subtly comment on the struggles of the working class during the Great Depression. Much like City Lights, Modern Times contains several scenes that are now iconic in cinema.
