Modern Times
Director: Charles Chaplin
Actors: Charles Chaplin, Paulette Goddard, Henry Bergman
PlotIn an industrialized and modernizing world, a factory worker struggles to keep up with the fast-paced demands of his job. Surrounded by machinery, his daily routine is dictated by the relentless and dehumanizing rhythm of the assembly line. His attempts to adjust to the grueling work pace result in comic mishaps, further exacerbated by the factory's constant drive for efficiency. The pressure mounts, leading to a mental breakdown, symbolizing the plight of the individual in a mechanized society. The worker's attempts to conform to the expectations of his employers are met with a series of humorous but ultimately challenging obstacles.
Finding himself in and out of various jobs, the factory worker crosses paths with a spirited young woman. She is a kindred spirit, facing her own set of struggles in the harsh economic landscape. Living on the fringes of society, she dreams of a better life, away from the poverty and destitution that plague her daily existence. They form an unlikely partnership, unified by their shared circumstances and buoyed by their hope and tenacity. Together, they navigate the complexities and absurdities of a world that seems increasingly out of touch with human needs and desires. As they move forward, their bond strengthens, providing a glimmer of warmth and companionship amidst the cold backdrop of a rapidly changing world.
Writers: Charles Chaplin
Release Date: 25 Feb 1936
Runtime: 87 min
Rating: G
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Criterion's 'Modern Times' Blu-ray excels in presentation & features, a must-have for Chaplin fans.
Read our review of Modern Times Blu-ray to find out more