Cast
View AllCharlie Chaplin
as The Inebriate
Edna Purviance
as The Girl
Eric Campbell
as The Man with the Gout
Henry Bergman
as Masseur
John Rand
as Sanitarium Attendant
James T. Kelley
as Sanitarium Attendant
Albert Austin
as Sanitarium Attendant
Frank J. Coleman
as Head of Sanitarium
Leota Bryan
as Nurse (uncredited)
William Gillespie
as Patient (uncredited)
Janet Sully
as Woman (uncredited)
Loyal Underwood
as Patient (uncredited)
Tom Wood
as Patient (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Charlie Chaplin
Writer
- Maverick Terrell
- Vincent Bryan
Producer
- Henry P. Caulfield
- Charlie Chaplin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Cure represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Charlie Chaplin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1917, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Cure took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 26 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 58 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1917, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Cure shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Viva Mi Desgracia, which focuses more on action than character development, The Cure offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Bridget Jones's Diary and Airplane! explore similar territory, The Cure stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 16, 1917
- Runtime: 26m