Before the arrival of sound, a remarkable group of performers transformed cinema into a universal language of laughter. Through ingenious visual storytelling, unforgettable characters and extraordinary physical skill, Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy and Harold Lloyd became some of the most beloved stars in film history. More than a century later, their work continues to entertain audiences and influence comedians, filmmakers and performers around the world.

This entertaining course explores the golden age of silent comedy through the lives, careers and screen personas of six of its greatest stars. Discover Chaplin's iconic Little Tramp, Keaton's deadpan brilliance and breathtaking stunts, Laurel and Hardy's timeless comic partnership, and Harold Lloyd's energetic blend of humour and adventure. 

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE RESOURCES

• Walter Kerr, "The Silent Clowns", Knopf,  1975
• Paul Merton, "Silent Comedy", Penguin Books, 2010

COURSE OUTLINE

• Overview of the American silent movie industry
• Charlie Chaplin – the Little Tramp, his distinctive blend of comedy, sentiment and social observation
• Buster Keaton – deadpan expression, extraordinary physical comedy and breathtaking stunt
• Stan Laurel & Oliver Hardy – the great comedy partnership and their brilliantly contrasting screen personas
• Harold Lloyd – the energetic “Glasses” character, ingenious gags and spectacular thrills

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

• Recognise the distinctive styles and screen personas of the great silent comedians.
• Understand the key elements of silent comedy and physical comedy.
• Appreciate the enduring appeal and legacy of these pioneering performers