A Chaplin tribute to Carl Davis

We were shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Carl Davis last month. I am very sorry to relate that his wife, Jean Boht, also passed earlier this month. I am sure you will join me in sending condolences to the family.

On a happier note, I am able to share with you an occasion to celebrate Carl’s life and work – as well as his love of Charlie Chaplin – at the Garden Cinema, central London, on 15 October.

In a celebration of Carl’s life and work, Bar Shorts will screen three silent Charlie Chaplin Mutual Films with scores composed by Carl at The Garden Cinema in Covent Garden at 2pm on Sunday 15 October. These shorts are rarely seen and chart the trajectory of the young Chaplin as he made his way from the new kid on the block to iconic film star. The films were programmed for Bar Shorts by Carl just before he died. Curated by our friend the double BAFTA-nominated television and film writer and director Chris Shepherd and Dog&Rabbit Animation, the programme will be followed by a Q&A with Carl’s daughter Jessie.

This promises to be a beautiful way to remember Carl. The films screening will be:

Behind the Screen (1916) 25 Minutes

The Cure (1917) 25 Minutes

The Immigrant (1917) 25 Minutes

2 thoughts on “A Chaplin tribute to Carl Davis”

  1. I knew about the death of Carl Davis but am so sorry to learn of his wife’s passing as well. Although it’s not uncommon for devoted couples to die within short time frames of each other, I join with you in sending my sincere condolences to the Davis family. And I so wish I could attend the October 15th tribute. RIP Carl and Jean.

  2. Carl Davis’ contribution to the revival of interest in silent cinema over the past 40 years is incalculable. His score for ‘The Wind’ (1928) is, IMO, his masterpiece. I wonder why he didn’t receive a knighthood?

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