I thought I would share some of the links and books, in case you feel like joining in. Great for the classroom, if you're an elementary/middle school teacher!
My Autobiography by Charles Chaplin
Great insight into Chaplin, silent cinema, and the people of his era. I really enjoyed his astute observation of people. At times funny and moving all at once, much like his films.
A must-read, in my opinion.
Silent Traces: Discovering Early Hollywood Through the Films of Charlie Chaplin by John Bengtson
Fascinating look at the film sets of Chaplin movies; Bengtson also published books on Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd film locations. If you're a film buff, these books are for you. You can read a Denver Post interview with the author here.
Online Resources
Silent Locations: For silent film location information, look no further than John Bengtson's blog. He has images, factoids on Chaplin, Keaton, and Lloyd. A research treasure trove...
The Great Depression: a curriculum guide from FDR Library (for educators).
Hollywood sign: the sign has its own website! Find out more about the history, and where to go if you want to visit.
Grauman's Chinese Theatre: interesting history.
For educators: here's a teacher's guide to Double Vision: The Alias Men to use in the classroom.
What's your favorite silent movie?
Fleur, I prefer Laurel and Hardy over Charles Chaplin, as does everyone in my family. A few years ago, I bought a set of L&H and Chaplin movies that are no longer available in the stores. Chaplin's "The Kid" and "The Circus" are some of my favourites. I'd be interested in reading his autobiography.
ReplyDeleteI grew up watching Laurel and Hardy (my father's favorite--I loved how he would laugh out loud :-). I'm amazed by how these early movies are still so relevant and entertaining. My kids were glued to "The Kid" when I watched it.
ReplyDeleteChaplin's autobiography is fascinating, I think. I hope you'll have a chance to read it, Prashant.