The Joys of Silent Film Comedians: The Most Famous Names in America

by: Kari Herren


The silent film era ran from 1904-1928. It stays an enigma for many film viewers. Said to be an experimental time before the main event: the “talkies”. The silent film comedians that remain undoubtedly the best known and loved would be Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Harold Lloyd.

First up would be, Sir Charles Chaplin (1889-1977) made silent films an art and is still arguably the most important figure in the film industry today. He was discovered by a great slapstick impresario, Mack Sennett and entered the cinema in 1914. His most known character is The Tramp. His character is trying to get to the top of the social ladder and- as we know- fails.


Next on the list is, Joseph Frank Keaton VI (1895-1966). Famously known as Buster Keaton, Buster began performing onstage as a child, getting rave reviews at the beginning. He started in his film career in 1917. He was discovered by Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle. He is famous for such titles as: “Sherlock Jr.”, “The general”, and “Three Ages”.

Last, we have Harold Lloyd (1893-1971). For several years during the 1920’s, Harold was the most famous film star. He made more money in those years than Chaplin and Keaton combined. He started his career with Hal Roach as a Chaplin clone. He quickly took on his own risk-taking stunt based act. Lloyd tried out several characters; finally, he found the perfect character for him. Bespectacled go-getter - boyish, sincere, shy, sometimes brash, full of confidence, optimism and gaiety", who "is determined to take the world by its tail. He parodied the American dream of success and burlesqued the young American go-getter.” Quote from Moviemail.

Those are the top three silent film comedians that made silent film history. With lack of sound, they figured a way to make you laugh. Professional mimes they were. Today they are well known around the world. Especially in the film world!