Meet the Cast of Modern Times

About Modern Times

Released on February 25, 1936
Comedy Drama Romance

In the classic film 'Modern Times' directed by the legendary Charlie Chaplin, we are introduced to the main character, a lovable yet clumsy tramp who dreams of building a home with a sweet and innocent young woman. The tramp, played by Chaplin himself, is a factory worker who toils away at his job, only to be caught up in the chaos and machinery of the industrial age. Despite his good intentions and kind heart, the tramp is constantly finding himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, causing him to miss out on opportunities to be with the woman he loves.

As the tramp and the young woman, portrayed by Paulette Goddard, try to make a life together, they face numerous challenges and setbacks. The tramp's inexperience in the world outside of the factory is evident, as he struggles to adapt to the changing times and provide for his loved one. Meanwhile, the young woman is also dealing with her own hardships, as she tries to make a living and keep them both afloat. Despite their struggles, the two remain determined to build a life together, and their love for each other is a beacon of hope in a world that seems to be spinning out of control.

Unfortunately, their dreams of a happy life together are constantly being dashed by the tramp's misfortunes. Whether it's getting caught up in a political protest, being chased by the police, or accidentally causing chaos in a department store, the tramp just can't seem to catch a break. Yet, through it all, he remains optimistic and hopeful, always striving to do better and be better for the woman he loves. 'Modern Times' is a heartwarming and poignant film that explores the themes of love, perseverance, and the human spirit in the face of adversity. It's a must-watch for any fan of classic cinema.

Full Cast of Modern Times

Charlie Chaplin
plays The Tramp (A Factory Worker)

In 'Modern Times', Charlie Chaplin delivers a masterful performance as The Tramp, a factory worker struggling to survive in an increasingly mechanized world. His physical comedy and expressive pantomime bring the character to life, eliciting both laughter and sympathy from the audience. The Tramp's interactions with machinery, particularly the iconic feeding machine scene, showcase Chaplin's genius for visual gags and social commentary. Despite the film's bleak setting, Chaplin's performance exudes a sense of hope and resilience, making The Tramp an enduring symbol of the human spirit. See Charlie Chaplin's other roles →

Paulette Goddard
plays A Gamin

In 'Modern Times', Paulette Goddard delivers a captivating performance as A Gamin, a street-smart and resourceful young woman who befriends Charlie Chaplin's iconic Tramp character. Goddard's portrayal of A Gamin is a perfect blend of vulnerability and resilience, as she navigates the challenges of poverty and unemployment in Depression-era America. Her natural charisma and chemistry with Chaplin are evident in their scenes together, and she holds her own against the legendary comedian, proving herself to be a talented and versatile actress. Goddard's performance as A Gamin is a standout in 'Modern Times', and it's no wonder that she went on to have a successful career in Hollywood. See Paulette Goddard's other roles →

Henry Bergman
plays Cafe Proprietor

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Tiny Sandford
plays Big Bill

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Chester Conklin
plays Mechanic

Chester Conklin's performance as the Mechanic in "Modern Times" is a standout, adding to the film's overall comedic brilliance. His character, a stern and fastidious factory worker, serves as a perfect foil to Charlie Chaplin's Tramp. Conklin's physical comedy and timing are impeccable, particularly in the famous feeding machine scene, where he struggles to keep up with the machine's relentless pace. His exaggerated reactions and expressive face add to the humor, making his performance a memorable one in this classic film. See Chester Conklin's other roles →