Modern Times (1936) - 94.5 Points

30. Modern Times (1936) - 94.5 Points
Chuckles 59, Laughs 20, Belly Laughs 15
Notes: This is a fascinating film because this is a "near" silent film, not because "talkies" weren't invented yet (they were) but by Charlie Chaplin's design/desire. There are no spoken lines except you can hear a radio talking in the background and twice, the CEO of the company that Charlie Chaplin works for appears on video and talks to the employees but other than that, this is a traditional silent film with no other spoken lines though Charlie Chaplin sings a song in Italian (beautifully) near the end of the film. This is the first time that Charlie Chaplin's voice was ever heard in a motion picture and the very last of his films featuring the "tramp" character. Charlie Chaplin's prowess on roller skates is undeniable in the nightwatchman scene in the department store. I was surprised to see "nose powder" (cocaine) in a jail scene. At this time (the 1930's) drug references were prohibited. This is a rare movie that I'd seen on many "experts" lists that I we can agree, definitely belongs on all "best of all time" lists. I love all of his movies  but if you're going to watch one Charlie Chaplin movie, let this be the one. Bravo! Would I watch it again? Absolutely!