Modern Times-Oliver

Modern Times was by any measure an interesting movie experience, produced during a very small window in the film industry when both silent and "talkie" films were if not equally viable, could still succeed financially. The film industry had initiated the transition to sound films a decade earlier, and there had already been multiple talkie's that were financially successful before the release of Modern Times, and in fact upon it's release Chaplin garnered an excess of criticism for sticking with the silent film format in face of popular trends.
Regardless, Modern Times remains one of his most popular films, and a monument to his legacy. Between the screenplay, the acting, and the editing there is not a single element that leaves itself open to criticism. Perhaps especially significant for a silent film was Modern Times expert use of sound. During the factory scenes you can hear machines humming, the clank and crunch of men working on the line, and the bell calling workers to attention. I think that the separation between sound and scene inherent to silent films adds a layer of quality to the work missing in modern movies. Every noise has a purpose, being that they were each added intentionally, and each stands out crisp and clear without any background pollution.
Though I prefer modern film with full audio to Chaplin's style I wonder if perhaps every filmmaker should be forced to shoot at least one work in silent. I think that the benefits to sound film eclipse any upsides to the silent method, but the skill Chaplin showed in overcoming the flaws of the form was exceptional, and modern films could learn from it. His ability to establish the Tramp's personality and character even without dialogue is astounding. With only body language, facial expression, and the occasional written line Chaplin establishes an incredibly strong impression of the Tramp's personality in the viewer's mind.
Overall I quite liked Modern Times, I was as amused by it as I think is possible for a silent film to someone raised on Hollywood's modern production techniques, and I fully appreciate the skill and quality it represents for the time. Charlie Chaplin was undeniably one of the early titans of the film industry, and the film that was arguably his greatest achievement showcases his skills as both an actor and filmmaker admirably. The Little Tramp is hilarious in every context, and will remain so for a long, long time.

BLOG 3 - Modern Times

Charlie Chaplin, both the director and writer of "Modern Times," created an entertaining and insightful silent film depicting the Industrialization Revolution. It was comical and light, two things people of all ages enjoy. During the intro credits, there was a big clock in the background. This was a clever touch and symbolically portrayed how much time workers spent in the factories. It also seemed to bring attention to the fact that time went by without any real excitement or diversity in one's surroundings. There were a few shots that seemed to be shown several times in a similar way such as the men simply working on the assembly line. This is crucial to notice because it represents the many people that were in this same situation at the time. 

Routine within the factory was quickly formed and drawn to the attention of the audience. Sounds were important in establishing the rigidity of the society and of the factory jobs themselves. Sounds and music were often repeated. The techno music added to the sense of factory life and machinery operation. Some sounds even sounded like the actual clinking of machines. Another thing I noticed was that some sounds used were very familiar to us. We recognized them, understood them and were even further drawn into the film because of it. An example of this is when the bell rings in the factory. As an audience, we understand that when a bell rings, it is time to stop or pay attention. The music also played a large role in creating suspense and humor. For example, in the scene where Chaplin unintentionally goes into the gear room, music creates a joyous, fantastical atmosphere and when he comes out again (into reality) he is faced with the same monotonous music as before. 

As far as technology, this film seemed up to par for the era. When the boss came onto the large screen to give directions, it shocked me! It was almost eerie how these scenes were done because they were very abrupt and again, very routine. The scenes with the Mechanical Salesmen added to the "modern society" feel of the film. It was also ironic that at one point the Mechanical Salesmen said: "Actions speak louder than words." I thought this was perfect for a silent movie. I also felt that the words displayed on screen provided additional information for the viewer. Not only were they funny but also provided a brief change in scenery to keep the viewer's mind occupied. 

I personally like the appeal of a black and white movie and was glad that "Modern Times" was in this format. I believe, in this case, it added to the illusion of a somewhat distraught society. Although Chaplin played a cheery, goofy fellow, it is clearly seen that many people were upset about their less than ideal situations. 

Blog Post #2

Watching a movie is more mindless. It is easy to forget any stylistic details. We pay attention to more of the storyline versus how each shot is presented and the impact on the viewer. I also believe that when watching a movie, you concentrate on your own reactions as if you were saying “what would I do” as opposed to just taking in how you felt as a result of HOW the movie was filmed. The small details of a film come into play when you are analyzing a movie, and as a result of paying more attention to the small details you undergo less immersion. It is not to say that you enjoy the film less, merely that you enjoy it in a different, more removed, manner.

First Post - Introduction

My name is Erin Meyering. I have created this blog to expand my knowledge on films and how they are put together. I also wish to share my input as well as get other’s opinions on how films are constructed and their affect on the audience. I am currently a UoR student yet wish to transfer next year to pursue a degree in Journalism. Film 111-01 strives to give students an insight on the criticism of film. This is partly done by expanding one’s knowledge and medium by encouraging a blog. In creating this blog, I hope that my peers, as well as myself can collaborate, discuss and analyze film. For myself, I hope that by learning some technicalities concerning film, I enrich my film viewing experience.

Post #1

I'm Oliver Horsey, a freshman of undeclared major at the University of Redlands. This blog will, at the end of the term, comprise a significant portion of my English-111 grade. It will also serve as an area in which to give voice to my developing film criticism. Hopefully as I collaborate on blog posts with my partner our shared perspectives will inform both our opinions on the subject matter.