What are the characteristics of the main character in each of these films and how do they differ? 

In the Kid, Chaplin portrays a tramp. He is run down, grimy and somewhat self centered. The tramp is a kind and giving character however. We see this when he takes in the abandoned child to raise as his own. Although the tramp may have his flaws, he represents the charity and kindness of man. In contrast, Keaton’s film Sherlock Jr follows a more professional and upright man. The film is less focused on deeper overall themes like Chaplins, and instead, appears more comedic. The use of slapstick comedy further progresses the distinction between the serious nature of The Kid and the comedic nature of Sherlock Jr.

How would you characterize each of these filmmakers’ approach to comedy?  How do they make us laugh?

Chaplin uses subtle irony to make viewers laugh. One scene that viewers see this in specifically, is the scene in which the kid breaks windows for Chaplin to then fix. The two scam customers by making it seem like Chaplin is saving the target from an unwieldy boy, when in fact it was all a scheme. Unlike Chaplin, Keaton takes full advantage of slapstick comedy in his film. Keaton sets much of his film in his dreams. By doing so, Keaton is able to create gags and scenarios that woulsdnt be plausible in reality. The sharp contrast between dreamlike joking reality and strong irony separates Keaton and Chaplin in these two films. 

What are other male characters in these films like? Are they different from the main comedic character?  What is typically the purpose of these other male characters?

In both films, the male actors tend to take a hardened approach to life. In Chaplin’s film, the man disregards his woman and child so that he can focus on work instead. Another example of this is the woman’s father in Keaton’s film. He is a sharp and wealthy man with connections and power. All of the men in these films, no matter good or bad, are all critical and practical.

How would you describe the female characters in these films? What part do they play in the plot of the film?

In both films, females play a supporting, but mildly unimportant role. Chaplin portrays the mother in his film as a sad and ruined woman. She is unhappy due to the actions of a man and is unsure what to do. The same is true for the love interest in Keaton’s film. She is under her father’s control in this instance. The women both seem to be smart and well prepared for life. However they both appear held back by the presence of the male characters.

What are the qualities of a “good” comedy film?  How do these films rate when you apply your comedy film qualities to them?

In my opinion, good comedy is a combination of rudimentary slapstick esc jokes and thoughtful irony. Personally. Chaplin met my comedic expectations more than Keaton did. I prefer more thoughtful jokes as opposed to jokes based on stupidity.

How does each of these films use the film form (close-ups, camera angles, etc.) in a more sophisticated way?  How do these films use intertitle cards to help tell the story?

Chaplin uses film form to highlight the dramatics of his story whereas Keaton uses film form to accentuate his comedy. Intertitle cards are used to push the narrative forward in both films.