Fairbanks and Chaplin ca. 1918-1919
Museum Treasures. Douglas Fairbanks and Charlie Chaplin had one of the greatest friendships in Hollywood history. For this selection in our Museum Treasures series, we pair them on screen in two of their early films. In His New Job, Chaplin sets his comedic antics on a film studio as a prop man turned accidental actor.
In 1915, successful Broadway actor Douglas Fairbanks decided to make the move from stage to screen. The Lamb was his feature film debut, in which he plays the titular "lamb" who must prove his courage to win back his love. Even in his first film, Fairbanks brings his charming humor and impressive feats of athleticism that made him into one of the most popular actors of the silent era.
Special presentation by Sophia Lorent, Curatorial Assistant, Moving Image Department. Live piano by Philip C. Carli. Special support provided by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.