Charlie Chaplin's Red Letter Days: At Work with the Comic Genius

by Fred Goodwins, David James (Editor), Dan Kamin (Editor)

This newly discovered eyewitness account reveals what was going on behind the scenes in Chaplin's fun factory as he was creating the hilarious comedies that rocketed him to worldwide fame. Written by Fred Goodwins, one of the actors in the company, the breezy narrative originally appeared in 1916 as a series of thirty-seven articles in the British magazine Red Letter. Goodwins was an astute observer who deepens our understanding of Chaplin's artistry and sheds new light on his personality. He also provides charming and revealing portraits of Chaplin's unsung collaborators, such as his beloved costar Edna Purviance and burly nemesis Eric Campbell. Mime artist and Chaplin expert Dan Kamin, who trained Robert Downey, Jr. for his Oscar-nominated performance in Chaplin, annotated the book to highlight its many revelations.

Illustrated with a selection of rare images that reflect the Chaplin craze, Charlie Chaplin's Red Letter Days provides a fascinating excursion into the private world of the iconic superstar whose films move and delight audiences to this day.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 27, 2017

Reviews

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This rather original book gives an insight to Chaplin's work, during his early years, through the lenses of his co-worker Fred Goodwins. The writer's view is particularly interesting, full of good humor and a sharp wit, and its narrative invites the reader to travel into the past and witness the beginning of cinema as an industry.
There are plenty of books about Charlie Chaplin, yet few of them were written by those who really knew him. Fred Goodwins' opinions may be arguable, however they bring to us another light upon the character of the 'Little Tramp'.

[Carrie Pomeroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chaplin fans will love this up-close look at the comedian at work during one of his happiest, most creative periods. Lots of new details and surprising insights! If you love silent comedy, you should own this book.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

For hardcore Chaplin fans like myself only, I'm guessing. Amusing writing, dry English wit, and plenty of antiquated words are easy to look up and remember. More fun and informative regarding his work methods to me than Chaplin's autobiography.