Review of Monsieur Verdoux (1947) by Peter K — 05 Jan 2008

Although upon its release the film was labeled a 'failure' for chaplin, I think this film is a testament to chaplin's versatility and adeptness, his cinematographic genius, ability to combine comedy with almost any other genre, to impose political and moral statements both subtley and overtly, eloquently and ironically, his scope and proficience as a director- not to mention the unfathomable transition from being a director of silent films to a director of talkies, as well as an actor. Verdoux is a new type of murderer; elegant and graceful (perhaps remnants of the amorous tramp), who's underlying motive and defense for such is incredibly well phrased and delivered- as only chaplin could, and was perhaps a rude awakening for the actions of many important figures of the world at the conclusion of world war two and the beginning of the cold war. Such innovative and brilliant camera work lighting and sound, such as the scene in which verdoux recites poetry as he gazes out at the moon-preparing to murder one of his wives. Chaplin manages to also tease the audience with sporadic comedic interludes, such as the boat scene in which he attempts to murder his ball-breaking wife played by martha raye.

Another chaplin classic, of a different kind.