Film still of The Great Dictator © Roy Export SAS
The Great Dictator, or when Chaplin makes a fool of Hitler
Charles Chaplin's first talking film and greatest commercial success, The Great Dictator, helped to make people aware of the dangers of the Nazi regime in 1940. Here are three good reasons to not miss this political comedy and masterpiece that ridiculed the Führer.
For the fact that it thumbed its nose at Hitler and the Nazi regime
The British filmmaker wanted to prove to America that they were dangerous. Chaplin concentrated on ridiculing the Führer, who is depicted as a clown portrayed by the character, Hynkel. He never hesitated to make light of symbols, like the scene in which the dictator's inflatable globe blows up in his face.
For the sensitive context in which it was directed…
German diplomats, followed by the American Foreign Office, United Artists and even the Un-American Activities Committee, tried to stop the project… Chaplin was nevertheless undiscouraged by all this pressure. Shooting of the film started on September 9th 1939, eight days after the Nazis had invaded Poland. He did receive support from President Roosevelt.
…and released
The Dictator was released in the USA on October 15th 1940, under criticism. In America, people suspected Chaplin of trying to force the USA to join the conflict by deteriorating the relationship that the country had with Germany and Italy. The film was banned in several European countries that wanted to remain neutral, due to its sensitive topic, from Spain to Ireland. By way of contrast, it was screened in London during the Battle of Britain.
