Widely considered one of the greatest films of the silent era, The Kid is a 1921 silent comedy-drama film written, produced, directed, and starring Charlie Chaplin. The opening title “A comedy with a smile–and perhaps a tear”, sums up its perfect blend of laughs and pathos.
The story begins as a young mother abandons her new-born baby with nothing but a note in his basket. The Tramp (played by Chaplin) inadvertently finds the child and takes him under his wing. The Tramp and the Kid, partners in crime (literally!), develop an irreplaceable bond. Five years pass and the Kid’s mother reappears on the scene, putting the pair’s relationship in jeopardy.
A 16-piece Manchester Camerata orchestra brings to life this all-time classic with an emotive musical score written by Chaplin himself.
“[Chaplin’s] new picture, The Kid, certainly outdoes in humor and the special brand of Chaplin pathos anything this popular film star has yet produced. There are almost as many tears as laughs in the new First National release–which proves the contention that Chaplin as almost as good a tragedian as he is a comedian. The Kid may be counted as a screen masterpiece.” Theatre Magazine (1921).
Programme
- Charlie Chaplin The Kid
Performed by
- Ben Palmer Conductor
- Manchester Camerata
The Kid © Roy Export S.A.S
Music for The Kid Copyright © Roy Export Company Ltd. and Bourne Co. All rights reserved
Charlie Chaplin™© Bubbles Incorporated S.A.
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