Modern Times, a film directed and starring Charlie Chaplin, is a testament of how good films can holds up over time. To expand, Chaplin made this film in 1936 and it focused on the events of the time.
Not only did the comedy stand the test of time but the message Chaplin was trying to convey held up as well. Chaplin focused on the issues of dehumanization, unemployment, hunger, police brutality, and industrialism to name a few. All of which can be applied to today. I feel, however, that without Chaplin's acting style the message would have been, not necessarily lost, but certainly less powerful. Chaplin has the ability to make someone laugh while conveying a different and in most cases serious message while using on or two or even no dialogue titles and his body.
The film was made several years after talking films where released but Chaplin decided to keep the actors in the film silent, only allowing them to talk through televisions or radios and various other technologies. This makes the film appeal to people who appreciate a good silent film yet it is not boring for someone who normally needs dialogue to enjoy a film. Chaplin also gave his character the little tramp the leading role in the film. Modern Times was also the final film that the tramp appeared in. The tramp is what gave the film it's fun and comical bits. Without the funny and whimsical acting of Chaplin's tramp character I don't think that the film would have been so widely accepted among most viewers today.
The camera techniques and directing style of Chaplin make the film seem like it is ahead of its time. For example, Chaplin's use of tracking and crane shots during the protest scene gives it a look that I think is ahead if its time.
In my opinion if you enjoy black and white film or really any genre of film and have a chance to view this film you should. It is a great example of how old film can still be watched and enjoyed.
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