The Kid (First National, 1921). Very Fine- on Linen. One Sheet (27" X 41") Standing Style.. ...

Description

The Kid (First National, 1921). Very Fine- on Linen. One Sheet (27" X 41") Standing Style.
The Kid was a landmark achievement, not only as Charlie Chaplin's first self-produced and directed feature-length film, but as the first feature-length comedy blockbuster in American history, helping to establish the foundation for all future comedic filmmaking. At the time, Chaplin's distributor, First National, was reluctant to support a full-length comedy, pressuring him instead to release it as three separate two-reel shorts, which was the standard format for comedies. Undeterred, Chaplin remained committed to his vision, spending nine meticulous months filming and reshooting scenes until the story matched his exacting standards. The result was an unqualified success. Upon its release in 1921, The Kid became an immediate sensation and the second highest-grossing film of the year, proving that comedy could thrive in a longer, emotionally resonant format. Chaplin's inspiration came when he discovered four-year-old Jackie Coogan performing a dance act at a music hall; struck by the child's charm and talent, Chaplin crafted the film around their onscreen partnership. Coogan, a natural performer and mimic, brought extraordinary emotional depth to the role and became the perfect counterpart to Chaplin's Little Tramp. The story masterfully blends humor and heartache: Chaplin's character finds an abandoned infant in an alley and, after failed attempts to pass him off, chooses to raise the child himself. As the boy grows, the two run a window-repair scam-Coogan breaks the glass, and Chaplin conveniently arrives to fix it for a fee. When authorities separate them, Chaplin's daring rescue becomes one of cinema's most poignant and iconic moments, showcasing a seamless fusion of slapstick and sentiment that would forever elevate the role of comedy in film. This one sheet, only a second-time offering from Heritage Auctions, beautifully depicts Chaplin and Coogan as they look over their shoulders, ready to face another day's misadventures. Poster shows light fold wear, paper lift from tape along the folds, and pinholes. Portions of the background have been airbrushed. Quite simply a "Holy Grail" of early cinema.


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