Jack Buckley

Wonderfully funny Chaplin short. Containing imaginative comic touches throughout, "The Champion" is set in the boxing world of the early 20th-century. The Little Tramp becomes an unlikely star-pugilist due to a little chicanery and amazing agility both in the gym and in the ring. What slapstick there is, is situation-specific, not random or aimless. This is a well-constructed comedy, played out in seemingly naturalistic fashion, showcasing Charlie's unique and effortless gestures and antics. Miss Edna Purviance lends her always welcome presence, though she appears only sparingly here. The final fade-out between herself and Charlie, however, is quite charming and appealing. As hilarious as "The Champion" remains today, one can only imagine the effect this film must've had on the movie audiences of 1915. One of Chaplin's finest.