Chaplin at Essanay: A Film Artist in Transition, 1915-1916

When Charlie Chaplin left Keystone Studios for more money and greater creative control at Essanay Film Manufacturing Company, he added more depth to his character, more thought to his direction, and more substance to his humor: at Essanay, he grew from a comedian to a true cinematic artist. This work carefully examines all sixteen Chaplin comedies produced at Essanay, showing Chaplin as an artist in transition from the knockabout Keystone farces to more refined, sometimes brilliant Mutual productions. From His New Job (1915) to Triple Trouble (1918), the book covers each film with key details, a history of its production, and valuable commentary that places the picture in context within Chaplin's canon.