Helpful Score: 1
The life and art of Charlie Chaplin, probalgy the best known, best loved and, ironically, most criticized personality of the cinema, is brought up to date in this concise but comprehensive biography by a leading British film historian. Roger Manvell shows how Chaplin's destitute childhood and early theatrical stints inspired the famed screen creation of the genteel little tramp who, with his mixture of impudence and pathos, was at once the pet and butt of mankind, and the rib-tickling delight of audiences. The author also examines the growth of his art from simple slapstick to its unique blend of social commentary and boisterous yet humane comedy, while sifting out the facts behind the controversial amours.
