Open ClassicCINEMA
Back to the collection

OPEN CLASSIC CINEMA · 708

The Circus

192870 minUnited States
ComedyDrama
Video edition
Wikimedia Commons
Original language
No spoken dialogue. Intertitles: English.
This copy runs
71:31
Subtitles
No subtitle track in this language

Languages and subtitles

No subtitle track in this language

Wikimedia Commons · Charlie Chaplin · Public domain

Synopsis

Mistaken for a thief, the Tramp runs into a circus performance and accidentally becomes its funniest attraction. The owner discovers that this new worker is entertaining only when he is not trying to perform. As the Tramp befriends an unhappy equestrian, his precarious job and romantic hopes lead him toward increasingly dangerous situations in the ring.

Cast

DirectorsCharles Chaplin

Behind the scenes

A studio fire and major interruptions in Chaplin's personal life delayed filming. The elaborate circus comedy finally reached audiences just as synchronized sound was changing the film industry.

Sources and availability

General references identify the work and its copy. A reference beside an editorial section is linked to the claims checked in that section.

Wikipedia — film referenceWikidata — film identity and credits

Work catalogued as public domain in the United States.

The public-domain references concern the original films in the United States. Rights can differ for other countries, editions, restorations, music or translations. Sources are listed on each film page.

Availability checked on September 12, 2026.

Photograph credit

Photographs cropped, resized and optimized as WebP, displayed in monochrome.

Audience rating

Loading ratings…

Keep exploring

Collection