In the annals of Hollywood history, the name Charles F. Reisner (or by his birth name Charles Francis Riesner) shines brightly. He was a screenwriter, film director, actor, and writer of many notable films.
Born on March 14, 1887, in Minneapolis, Minn., to John Riesner and Anna Bleich his journey through the entertainment industry is described as “nothing short of extraordinary,” as one film historian noted. Reisner’s career was a testament to his versatility and creative spirit, spanning various roles and genres.
EARLY YEARS
Reisner’s early years saw him in the boxing ring, but he didn’t stop there. As a vaudevillian performer for a decade, he earned the admiration of audiences and fellow artists alike. His talents even extended to lyric writing for musical comedies on the illustrious Broadway stage. “A master of visual comedy,” another enthusiast commented, “Reisner’s ability to devise intricate sight gags was legendary, earning him a well-deserved place in the annals of cinematic history.”
Reisner’s journey took a significant turn when he made the move to California in 1915, where he embarked on a new chapter as an actor in one-reel comedies at Universal Studios. He continued to hone his craft, gathering invaluable experiences at Vitagraph before eventually landing at Keystone, where he crossed paths with none other than the legendary Charles Chaplin. “Reisner’s work with Charles Chaplin on classics like ‘A Dog’s Life’ and ‘The Kid’ showcased his exceptional talent for enhancing the comedic genius of the silent screen era,” praised a silent film scholar.
CHAPLIN CONNECTION
Their collaboration culminated in “The Gold Rush” (1925), where Reisner was credited as the assistant director. The film’s success only added to his growing reputation as a creative force in Hollywood, and his contributions to Chaplin’s comedy classics became legendary, according to IMDb.
In his later years, Reisner made a significant impact at Warner Brothers, directing films starring Charles’ brother, Syd Chaplin. He even directed Buster Keaton in “Steamboat Bill, Jr.” (1928), a film that paid homage to vaudeville’s rich history while infusing the genre with a fresh, contemporary twist. Unfortunately, the film struggled at the box office, marking the end of Keaton’s era with his own production company.
“Charles Reisner’s contributions to the world of comedy are immeasurable,” emphasized a film critic, “and his influence on the genre continues to be celebrated to this day.” In the 1930s, Reisner dabbled in mystery and crime dramas, but he always felt most at home in the world of laughter.
COMEDY
From his direction of Jack Benny in “It’s in the Air” (1935) to The Marx Brothers in “The Big Store” (1941), Reisner consistently brought joy to audiences with his comedic genius. His direction of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello in “Lost in a Harem” (1944) and Joan Davis in “The Traveling Saleswoman” (1950) showcased his ability to elicit laughter from some of the most beloved comedians of his time.
FAMILY AND DEATH
He was married possibly twice and had one son, Dean, he also had eight siblings when growing up.
“While Hollywood evolved over the years,” noted a comedy scholar, “Reisner’s dedication to making audiences laugh remained unwavering, leaving us with a treasure trove of laughter and timeless cinematic moments.”
Tragically, Charles Reisner passed away on Sept. 24, 1962, at the age of 75 in La Jolla from a heart attack leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of film and comedy. He is buried in the Eternal Hills Memorial Park in Oceanside.
His contributions to the industry, his directorial prowess, and his ability to bring laughter to countless audiences continue to be celebrated and remembered to this day. He directed over 60 films between 1920 and 1950 and acted in over 20 films between 1916 and 1929. Read more aquí.
