Charlie Chaplin signed with Essanay Film Manufacturing Company in late 1914 after making a name for himself at Keystone. It was at Essanay that Chaplin was able to develop as a filmmaker—where he became truly "Chaplinesque." Our program features three short films that chart this development, all from 1915. HIS NEW JOB is Chaplin’s first title at Essanay and it has the Tramp working behind the scenes at a film studio. In THE CHAMPION, the Tramp wins a championship fight with the help of his pet bulldog. Chaplin plays dual roles in the hilarious A NIGHT IN THE SHOW: as Mr. Pest in the orchestra seats and Mr. Rowdy in the peanut gallery.
Restorations by the Chaplin Project (led by Lobster Films and Cineteca di Bologna). DCP from Lobster Films
Introduced by David Shepard
Copresented by Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum and the Exploratorium
ASL interpretation