Shoulder Arms (1918)

In the comedic whirlwind of Shoulder Arms (1918), we follow Charlie, an earnest but clumsy recruit, navigating the challenges of boot camp in the so-called "awkward squad." Shipped off to France sans any letters from home, his only piece of nostalgia comes in the form of a pungent package of limburger cheese, prompting the need for a gas mask and an immediate toss into the enemy trench. Charlie's plucky courage propels him "over the top," single-handedly rounding up thirteen German soldiers, with just the statement, "I surrounded them." Thirsty for more adventure, he undertakes a daring escapade, camouflaging himself as a tree trunk to infiltrate the German frontlines. A chance encounter with a brave French lass aids him in his audacious plan, leading to the triumphant capture of the Kaiser and the Crown Prince. Reveling in glory, Charlie is honored with a statue and a victory parade amidst the skyscrapers of New York. But just as the cheers reach a crescendo, reality punctures this heroic bubble, revealing it to be an elaborate dream from which his fellow soldiers rouse him. This 1918 classic is a blend of humor and fantasy, set against the backdrop of a world at war.

Shoulder Arms is a comedy movie featuring Charlie Chaplin.

Shoulder Arms is currently streaming on Criterion Channel and Max Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy Shoulder Arms on Amazon Video or rent it on Pantaflix.