Charles Maland focuses on the cultural sources of the on-and-off, love-hate affair between Chaplin and the American public that was perhaps the stormiest in American stardom. "A fascinating, ambitious and incisive look at American culture and at the cinematic genius."--Robin Lippincott, New York Times Book Review.  

In his own words, Charlie talks about his depression,
thoughts on life, and so on. Anyone wanting to spend their time reading a great book should pick up this one. 

Chaplin : His Life and Art
by David Robinson

Robinson explores Chaplin's early life, his legal difficulties, and anti-communist persecution, as well as his career and the making of films such as Modern Times and The Great Dictator. Includes b&w photos, a chronology and filmography, a list of theater tours, a summary of the FBI's secret file on Chaplin, and a Chaplin who's who. 

Charlie Chaplin: And His Times
by Kenneth S. Lynn 

Professor Lynn is nothing if not thorough in his research and the book offers insights into myriad tangential topics to the one under his microscope: Chaplin. The book is especially good when exploring the nature of Chaplin's genius, and Lynn is a credible film critic and historian. 

The first book came out shortly after the Freedom of Information Act was passed and files started appearing.

Unlocking the Files of the FBI: A Guide to Its Records and Classification System
by

This book provides the necessary guidance, including an overview of FBI classifications, a profile of each category, descriptions of some of the cases and the current location of each set of records.

City Lights (1931)

Chaplin's masterpiece tells story of his love for blind flower girl, and his hot-and-cold friendship with a drunken millionaire. Eloquent, moving, and funny the film culminates with one of the most moving scenes in the history of cinema.

Modern Times (1936)

Charlie Chaplin is in glorious form in this legendary satire of the mechanized world.

The Great Dictator (1940)

Chaplin has a dual role in this film, his first with dialogue. He plays a Jewish barber and a Hitler-type dictator with such satirical impact that it counter-balanced the oratory of Adolf Hitler. Academy Award Nominations: 5, including Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Writing.  

The Gold Rush/Pay Day(1942)

The Gold Rush is one of Chaplin's simplest, loveliest features; and despite its high comedy, it never strays far from Chaplin's keen grasp of loneliness. In 1942, Chaplin reedited the film and added music and his own narration for a successful rerelease.