About Shoulder Arms

"Shoulder Arms" is a silent comedy film that was released in 1918. The movie is one of the most popular films by Charlie Chaplin, who wrote and directed the film himself. This satirical film is based on WWI where Charlie plays a boot camp private who has a dream of being a hero.

The plot is depicted in a series of comedic events, ending with a climax where Chaplin captures the German Kaiser, achieving his dream of becoming a hero. Despite the context of war, the film enchants the audiences with its unique humor and faultless comic timings.

Making / Production

"Shoulder Arms" was promoted as the film that has ‘three miles of smiles’. The film was a gamble as audiences were still sensitive about World War I. However, it proved to be a success because of the way Chaplin portrayed war through the lens of humor. By incorporating both satirical and slapstick comedy, Chaplin managed to entertain while also providing commentary on the war.

Actors

• Charlie Chaplin - Played the role of the Boot Camp Private with his iconic comic style, keeping audiences engaged throughout the film.
• Edna Purviance - Played the dual roles of Charlie's wife and a French girl, while bringing charm and humor to both characters.
• Syd Chaplin - Played The Sergeant, The Kaiser and others in an impressive display of versatility and comic timing.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Shoulder Arms" was Charlie Chaplin's first feature film with a duration of about 45 minutes.
• The movie was so popular that it was shown to troops as a morale booster during World War I.
• Chaplin's older brother Syd Chaplin played three roles in the movie.

Awards

While not recognized with an award at the time of its release, "Shoulder Arms" is now considered a classic and is renowned for its comedic genius. The legacy of the film has earned it a place in the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

Quotes

• "What you gonna do? Kill me? You don't have the guts to kill a fly."
• "I don't think much of our side."
• "War is an awful thing, but it has its compensations."

Music, Soundtrack

Being a silent film, "Shoulder Arms" did not have a traditional soundtrack. However, a musical score was added to screenings of the film in theaters to heighten the comedic events and dramatic moments in the film.