In Modern Times, Charlie Chaplin criticizes the effects of capitalism on the working class. Through a different lens, one can view this as a contemporary critique of control freaks. He uses parody and exaggeration to strengthen his assertion. Chaplin uses parody to strengthen his assertion by making a mockery of how human beings are forced to fit around and within the institution in modern society particularly in relation to the “American Dream” and “the pursuit of happiness”. The theme of Chaplin's Modern Times is to use humor to show how human beings have not only become slaves to their work but also how by conforming to standards set by those of higher standing in society. This theme is emphasised in in the opening of the film, which
