I was so impressed with Modern Times (1936), which I got to watch last night. Even though City Lights was higher up (78 versus 11), I liked Modern Times so much more than City Lights. Don’t get me wrong, both are Chaplin Cute, but for some reason I like Modern Times more.
Chaplin had such a way with making himself look absolutely ridiculous in an adorable, endearing way. It helps that he’s kind of a small guy and quirky looking. In this film, he plays a factory worker who just can’t seem to stay out of trouble. He continues to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, and his lack of social graces adds to his troubles.
He ends up befriending a homeless orphan (played by Paulette Goddard—who is probably known for her part in the original 1939 version of The Women) and they team up to get through these tough times.
AFI 100 remaining=10
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