S 1921 Move notes

This is a classic silent film directed and starred by Charlie Chaplin, released in 1921. It was Chaplin’s first feature-length film, telling the story of a poor glassmaker (played by Chaplin) who accidentally adopts an abandoned child (played by Jackie Coogan), and the deep bond that forms between them. Through numerous humorous and touching scenes, the film showcases how they rely on each other and face life's challenges together. Chaplin’s portrayal of the impoverished glassmaker in "The Kid" is a masterclass in acting, exhibiting the character's kindness, humor, and resilience. Whether he’s showing care for the child or struggling through difficult situations, Chaplin uses nuanced body language and expressions to perfectly convey the character’s inner world. For example, in the film, the glassmaker uses makeshift but warm methods to care for the child, such as feeding him with a broken teapot and making a crib out of old clothes. These details highlight his kindnes...

The film begins by focusing on the wealthy Argentine landowner Marcelo Desnoyers and his large family. Marcelo has two sons-in-law: one French and the other German. As World War I breaks out, family members find themselves on opposite sides, creating tension and complexity within the family. Marcelo's French son-in-law joins the French army, while his German son-in-law fights for Germany, leading to the family's disintegration. This plot showcases the immense impact of war on families, highlighting the helplessness and suffering of individuals and families caught in national conflicts. Through the rise and fall of the family, the film reveals the divisions and tragedies brought about by war, allowing the audience to deeply understand its cruelty and destructive power. The conflicts within this transnational marriage not only exacerbate the family's internal tensions but also reflect broader social and political struggles. Marcelo's grandson, Julio (played by Rudolph Val...