He was a creative and performance genius. I've seen a ton of his stuff. Loved
City Lights,
The Gold Rush,
Modern Times,
The Great Dictator, and numerous one reelers. Though
The Great Dictator was a talkie, the silent (other than music) scene of Hinkel (Hitler) juggling the world globe was sheer brilliance. I have a
Modern Times poster on my wall, and a
Great Dictator poster waiting to go up.
He also wrote a lot of the music used in his films. His best known song, probably, is
Smile. He composed the music but didn't write the lyrics.
Smile, though your heart is aching.
Smile, even though it's breaking.
Though there are clouds in the sky,
you get by...
If you smile through your fears and sorrows.
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through.
If you just light up your face with gladness,
Hide every trace of sadness.
Although a tear may be ever, ever so near.
That's the time you must keep on trying.
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find life is worthwhile
If you'll just smile, come on and smile.
If you just smile.As the article points out, Keaton is another silent artist worthy of investigation. Check out
The General,
Steamboat Bill, Jr., and
The Cameraman. And, NO, I didn't see them in the theaters when they were first released.
