Along with Harold and Maude, The Gold Rush is also being released on Blu-ray & DVD today as part of the Criterion Collection.  Directed by and starring the great Charles Chaplin, the story of a prospector looking for his fortune in the Klondike was originally released as a silent film in 1925 and again in 1942 with new music and narration.  Fully restored versions of both are included on the disc.

Anchored by a wonderful performance from Charlie Chaplin that further cemented him as a genuine star back in the day, The Gold Rush stands proudly alongside City Lights and Modern Times as one of his greatest achievements.  With numerous scenes that have rightfully gained their place in cinematic history and become iconic over the years, this is a comedic masterpiece that still holds up nearly ninety years later.

The Blu-ray includes commentary with biographer Jeffrey Vance, several featurettes and more.  Also included is a booklet with an essay by critic Luc Sante and James Agee’s review of the 1942 release.

The 1925 version of The Gold Rush is 88 minutes and rated G.  The 1942 cut is 72 minutes.

-John C.