Review of The Great Dictator (1940) by Abhik D — 16 Jul 2009

There are several reasons this film can easily be classified as a classic. First of all, Chaplin's feature films by lineage alone are usually held at this stature (and for good reason), and the fact that this was his first "talkie" picture certainly helps.

The fact that Chaplin was bold enough to lampoon the most feared dictator even before Hitler truly rose to the level of villainy he would achieve, and to do so in such a comical way, also deserves praise.

I would also say that this film really showcases Chaplin's acting skill better than almost any of his other films, as he plays two roles: one an obvious satire of Hitler which he nails perfectly, and a pauper-like figure who still adopts much of Chaplin's timeless physical comedy while adding spoken word into the comedic arsenal as well.

All of these elements are admirable, but my favorite moment is definitely Chaplin's final monologue in the film, which I would uphold as one of the most impassioned beautiful calls for democracy ever written for the screen.

Laugh through most of the film, because it is hilarious, and then sit in awe at the words Chaplin composed for the finale, and it will likely provoke a feeling of genuine patriotism made all the more powerful by the time in history in which Chaplin preached it.