For my first screening post I chose to write about Set Design for The Great Dictator (1940). I found the set Design most interesting, not because for its’ contrast, or depth, but the way the actors could interact with it to tell the story. What I mean is that, the way that Charlie Chaplin used the set as a prop lent to the style of comedy he was going for. For example, in the iconic scene where he dances with the globe, his office seems to function not only as an office but as a ballroom. And the globe as part of the set is able to be removed and integrated into the action of the scene. Another example, would be when Chaplin is waiting in the train station for Napaloni. The set is rather fat and does not have much depth, however it functions most effectively for the action of the scene. As they run back and forth following the train with the rug the flat space adds to the two demential action going on. I feel that one could think of this as a motif of Chaplin films, or just slap stick comedy in general. It is a way to make the set more useful than just as a place where action happens. Or, perhaps it is a stipulation of the equipment at the time. Cameras where larger and harder to move. So instead of having action moving fluidly through several sets they have one set. Of course this could be boring if all the action happens right there with only two or three different camera positions. However, if the set is made into a prop that gives more depth to the scene. If their are trap doors, moving furniture, doors that lead off camera, or removable objects in the set. Another example would be when Chaplin is hiding from the Tomanian Soldiers in the Jewish neighbors house. Every time the door is opened he jumps into a trunk at the end of the room. Then Schultz tries to jump in with him. So in conclusion the set design lends to the style of comedy and also adds an interactive detention to the scenes.