City Lights is a silent 1931 Charlie Chaplin film. Sound film was a growing trend, but Chaplin stuck with silents for years afterwards. I watched it on HBO Max. Our ridiculous copyright laws explain why this 91-year old film is not more freely available. I blame Sonny Bono and Disney.
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Criterion calls it "the most cherished film by Charlie Chaplin". Deep Focus Review has an interesting article on Chaplin's career and this film in particular. Roger Ebert opens his review with this: "If only one of Charles Chaplin's films could be preserved, “City Lights” (1931) would come the closest to representing all the different notes of his genius." Rotten Tomatoes has a critics consensus score of 97%. It's included in the book 1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die.
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...91 years for copyrights seem to be rather long!
ReplyDeleteMuch, much too long.
DeleteI'll have to look for this on HBO Max when we drop Starz. Chaplin is so brilliant. I always thought Disney was to blame for the copyright act all in an effort to protect the mouse. Steamboat Willie is supposed to be public domain next year. I wonder what Disney will do?
ReplyDeleteDisney, yes, but Sonny Bono was a mover and shaker behind it too, oddly enough. I'm sure Disney has a plan.
DeleteI've never seen this film, but I would love to check it out. Too bad I cancelled HBO, but as I said last time, I will put it on my list for whenever I resubscribe. Happy Memorial Day.
ReplyDeleteHBO Max is one of my keepers. I'd love to try Hulu, though...
DeleteI was never a fan of C. C.
ReplyDeleteHe's not generally one of my favorites, but he had his moments.
DeleteThis one is truly a gem. I agree -- Chaplin's best.
ReplyDeleteI understand why this film made the list. Sometimes I see a film in this book and have no idea why it was chosen.
DeleteI read with interest about the copyright laws. I had NO idea this law passed. I'm really surprised TV shows are included in this.
ReplyDelete_Everything's_ included.
DeleteI didn't know about the change to copyright law. Another to add to my watchlist. I don't think I have seen this one. :)
ReplyDeleteI remember when they pushed through the copyright extension. I was shocked.
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