Charlie Chaplin's films always had their share of
social commentary, mixed in with a large dose of
humor. "The Great Dictator" is a very good film
that accomplishes both its goals: it is often
hilarious, and it effectively lampoons Hitler and
his oppressive policies.
"The Great Dictator" was apparently written prior
to Hitler's invasion of Poland that triggered
World War II. Chaplin's targets are Hitler, his
henchmen, Mussolini, Hitler's treatment of Jews,
and the acquisition of Austria. Stormtroopers are
invariably portrayed as bullying, stocky and
stupid.
Chaplin plays the story's hero, a Jewish Barber
who has spent the past twenty years unconscious
in a hospital. Upon recovery and release, he is
unaware of the changes to German society and the
new plight of the Jews. He has no problem getting
a girlfriend (Paulette Goddard) but makes enemies
with the stormtroopers.
Chaplin also plays a Hitler clone. The satire is
very cleverly done. Hitler's fiery speeches are
ridiculed, as is the ubiquitous salute (famous
statues such as "The Thinker" are shown
saluting). Hitler's schemes to conquer the world
and install a master Aryan race are also mocked.
A Mussolini-like character eventually arrives to
argue with Hitler about who will control Austria.
Mussolini is hilariously played by Jack Oakie as a
swaggering egotist, complete with an exaggerated
Italian accent.
"The Great Dictator", in addition to its heavy
political messages, marks several changes in
Chaplin's career. Although there are many silent
scenes (Hitler dances with a globe, Jews eat
puddings laced with coins that they try to put on
another's plate) this is Chaplin's first talkie.
Chaplin does not play his Tramp character, and
allows another actor (Oakie) to upstage him.
While "The Great Dictator" was not the
masterpiece that his previous film ("Modern
Times" from 1936) was, it remains a fascinating
film that makes an important statement and marks
an era. It flags only in the final scenes, when
the Barber makes an uncharacteristic (and
overlong) impassioned speech. (76/100)
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