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Charles Spencer Chaplin was born to Hannah Chaplin and Charles Chaplin Sr. in Walworth, London. -
Chaplin’s father, Charles Chaplin Sr., separated from the family and eventually died in 1901. This early family instability influenced Chaplin’s view of hardship and comedy. -
His mother, Hannah, experienced mental health issues and was admitted to institutions, meaning young Chaplin and his half-brother Sydney spent time in workhouses and charity homes. -
At the age of 19, Chaplin joined Fred Karno’s comedy troupe and toured the UK and later the US, gaining experience in pantomime and slapstick that would shape his film persona. -
Chaplin signed with the Essanay Film Manufacturing Company in the US and made early short films like “Making a Living” (1914), transitioning from stage to screen. -
In the film “Kid Auto Races at Venice”, Chaplin first appeared in his iconic “Little Tramp” costume — bowler hat, cane, toothbrush moustache — which would define his career. -
World War I Era (1914-18) – Growth of Film Industry
During WWI the US film industry dominated due to disruption of European production; Chaplin’s timing positioned him to become a global star. -
Chaplin co-founded United Artists (with Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks and D. W. Griffith) to gain creative control over his films and distribution. -
Chaplin directed, wrote, starred in “The Kid”, a film blending comedy and pathos, and one of his first feature-length successes. -
Considered one of Chaplin’s greatest films, “The Gold Rush” showcased his comedic genius and began his global fame. -
With the release of The Jazz Singer in 1927 film went sound-heavy; Chaplin resisted full voice dialogue, choosing to maintain silent style in a changing medium. -
With “City Lights”, Chaplin avoided full sound dialogue; the film is largely silent yet uses an orchestra soundtrack, highlighting his mastery of visual comedy. -
A bold satire on fascism and Adolf Hitler, this film marked Chaplin’s first full-sound film where he both spoke and used voice — a major shift. -
Chaplin starred in and directed “Monsieur Verdoux”, a dark comedy about a father and serial killer, showing his willingness to take risks even as public tastes shifted. -
With the release of The Jazz Singer in 1927 film went sound-heavy; Chaplin resisted full voice dialogue, choosing to maintain silent style in a changing medium. -
Amid political pressure and accusations of communist sympathies, Chaplin left the US and settled in Switzerland. -
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awarded Chaplin an honorary Oscar for “the incalculable effect he has had in making motion pictures the art form of this century.” -
Academy Award for Best Original Score – “Limelight”
Chaplin won an Oscar for the musical score of his 1952 film “Limelight” (which had limited US release until later); it underscored his multi-talented artistry. -
Though released in 1967, Chaplin’s later years reflect on cinema’s shift; in 1977 he accepted renewed acclaim and retrospectives, culminating in a re-release and reflection on his legacy. -
Chaplin passed away at the age of 88; his funeral attracted thousands, his legacy solidified. -
Film scholars re-evaluated Chaplin’s work, film festivals honoured him, and his influence on comedy and cinema was cemented.