Watch The Idle Class
- TV-G
- 1921
- 32 min
-
7.2 (4,223)
The Idle Class is a silent comedy from 1921, starring Charles Chaplin, Edna Purviance, and Charles Aber. The film is known for its sharp critique of high society in 1920s America. The film's plot revolves around the life and times of a wealthy husband and his tramp-like wife. The husband is played by Charles Chaplin, while Edna Purviance plays his wife. The movie follows the couple as they navigate the ups and downs of high society.
The film opens with a hilarious scene featuring Chaplin who is passed out drunk in the back of his chauffeured car. He wakes up after the car crashes and sees a group of men who have sustained injuries from the accident. The scene is funny, but it also showcases Chaplin's excellent physical comedy.
Throughout the movie, Chaplin's character spends his days idly lounging around and gambling, while his neglected wife pursues her own interests in a different part of town. She becomes involved in the life of a poor artist who is struggling to make a living. The contrast between the two worlds offers a critique of high society and the problems that plagued it in the early 1900s.
There are many comedic moments throughout the movie, with Chaplin's trademark physical humor being the most notable. There are also some truly touching moments that highlight the relationship between the husband and wife. The film does an excellent job of balancing these comedic and dramatic elements, creating a well-rounded story that is both engaging and insightful.
One of the most memorable scenes in The Idle Class is when Chaplin mistaken an asylum for a high-end spa. The mix-up leads to him participating in a boisterous game of blindfolded soccer with the mental patients before realizing he is in the wrong place. It is one of the most hilarious scenes in the movie.
Aside from its entertainment value, the film also offers a commentary on social class and the divide between the rich and poor. The Idle Class does not shy away from exploring the negative aspects of a privileged life, and the audience is left with a deeper understanding of the societal issues facing America in the early 1900s.
Overall, The Idle Class is a classic silent comedy that still holds up today. With its excellent cinematography, well-written and executed story, and Chaplin's unmatched physical comedy skills, the movie is an essential watch for anyone interested in the history of film. If you are looking for a classic comedy that offers both laughs and social commentary, then The Idle Class is the perfect movie for you.
The Idle Class is a 1921 comedy with a runtime of 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.