“A day without laughter is a day wasted.” –Charlie Chaplin
The Topanga Film Festival and Institute will present Charlie Chaplin’s 1940 film, The Great Dictator, on Saturday, October 27, 3-7:30 p.m., at the Topanga Community House.
Chaplin aficionado Miranda Robin will host, possibly in the persona of Mr. Chaplin, and conduct a dynamic panel discussion following the screening.
“Charles Spencer ‘Charlie’ Chaplin, an icon, a legend, a perfectionist, was born to change the world of film and he did,” says Robin. “His films continue to remind us to speak our truth, share our emotional process, and express world views through perspective and change. Chaplin’s films, though mostly silent, were loud through passion, promise, and political awareness.”
Seventy-eight years ago, The Great Dictator was released. In it is a speech that reflected the core values, messages, and societal heartbreak of the time that parallel today’s current political climate.
The Chaplin dialogue now continues in the same month that The Great Dictator was released.
“This event acknowledges the strength of community, the love of film, and relishes all things Chaplin,” says Robin. “The experience of watching a film together elicits conversation and future projects.”
This night of film promises good conversation, memories, and a Chaplin Speech that fills the heart with hope.
The Topanga Community Center is located at 1440 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290. For more information: info@topangacommunityclub.com; (310) 455-1980.
Miranda Robin has been a Charlie Chaplin aficionado since the sixth grade. Over the years, she has brought his films to light at numerous festivals and screenings, as well as a depth of knowledge about Chaplin’s art and philosophy that she loves to share.
Rollie Totheroh was Charlie Chaplins cameraman and lived in Topanga. David Totheroh screened Modern Times for a bunch of people who worked at the Messenger at the Totheroh house by the creek, in the 90s.