Jeffrey Vance

The Marx Brothers: Hollywood's Kings of Chaos

A documentary about the Marx Brothers containing interviews with Leonard Maltin, Dick Cavett and others.

Chaplin - The Legend of the Century

A new TV documentary on Chaplin that celebrates a 100 years of the iconic Tramp, presented by Laurent Delahousse.

Presenting The Gold Rush

In 1942, Charles Chaplin released his definitive sound version of THE GOLD RUSH, effectively abandoning the original 1925 silent version of his film. In this documentary short subject, created by The Criterion Collection, Kevin Brownlow and Chaplin biographer and archivist Jeffrey Vance recount the journey of this comic masterpiece.

The Great Dictator: The Clown Turns Prophet

In this visual essay, Charles Chaplin biographer Jeffrey Vance, author of "Chaplin: Genius of the Cinema", draws upon a wealth of photography as well as a wide range of interviews (Paulette Goddard, Sydney Chaplin, Chuck Jones, Leni Riefenstahl, Mel Brooks, Joan Collins et al.) to examine the production history of "The Great Dictator", the film's importance as a satire, and legacy.

Modern Times: A Closer Look

In this 2010 visual essay, Chaplin historian Jeffrey Vance, author of “Chaplin: Genius of the Cinema,” draws from a wealth of production photography to discuss the making of MODERN TIMES.

Silent Laughter: The Reel Inspirations of 'Silent Movie'

A featurette about the origins of "Silent Movie," as well as its inspirations and development, direct cinematic influences, cast and performances, gag specifics and cut scenes, Brooks’ directorial style and a few other tidbits.

Murnau, Borzage and Fox

Documentary focusing on the film careers F.W. Murnau, Frank Borzage and William Fox and their impact on the history of cinema.

Public Enemies: The Golden Age of the Gangster Film

Produced for Turner Classic Movies, this documentary looks at the early days of the gangster film.

Thou Shalt Not: Sex, Sin and Censorship in Pre-Code Hollywood

A look at the forces that shaped Pre-Code Hollywood and brought about the strict enforcement of the Hays Code in 1934.