Limelight

In this late era Chaplin film, he plays a washed up comedian in 1914 London who befriends a young suicidal ballerina and nurses her back to health back physically and emotionally.

Much of the film is clearly autobiographical. Just like his character in the film (the Great Calvero) Chaplin's comedy was a relic of the past. But Chaplin gets to have it both ways in the film. He gets to make a serious film about aging and being discarded by an unsophisticated modern audience while at the same time getting to film a number of scenes reminiscent of his classic work. There are a number sequences in the film that play off of his old silent comedies. It's a nice touch.

And Buster Keaton is in it! He plays Calvero's assistant. As far as I know, it was the only time, the two appeared in a film together.

Despite being a little too long, the film is a nice mix of the classic Chaplin hallmarks of comic poignancy and a more modern sensibility. Still, if you are looking to see a late era Chaplin, make sure to start with the better Monsier Verdoux instead.

Directed by Charlie Chaplin
1952
TCM