The Great Dictator (1940)

It is hardly a rare occurrence to find a war film that chooses to tackle World War II, such a horrific and recognised war draws many eyes, so it is only natural for it to be a regular visitor to the silver screen, parodies mocking World War II at the time iof the war, on the other hand, are a far rarer breed. Enter, ‘The Great Dictator’, a Charlie Chaplin film where he both directs and stars in acting roles. He plays both Mr Hyckel, a direct parody of Adolf Hitler, portrayed as a bumbling fool and, somehow, the leader of Tomania, the film’s interpretation of Germany. He also portrays a Jewish barber and World War 1 veteran. I didn’t think I could crack a smile at World War 2, but this film was above and beyond simply smiling. The film is a joy that takes away from the war-related pessimism and dread that the 1940s constantly attract. Both of Chaplain’s characters are brilliantly acted and were a delight to watch. However the ending did fall flat. Desperate to send a message, the film blinded itself to its original task of being a comedy. Regardless of the empty ending that it creates, as it does leave you unsatisfied, the film is a joy to watch nonetheless.