Internet Archive's in-browser video player requires JavaScript to be enabled. It appears your browser does not have it turned on. Please see your browser settings for this feature.

Volume 90%

00:00

2:05:16

The Great Dictator ( 1940)

by: Charlie Chaplin

Publication date: 1940-10-31

Usage: CC0 1.0 Universal

Topics: Charlie Chaplin, The Great Dictator, 1940 Films, 1940 Hollywood Films, Hollywood Films, Black & White Films, Charlie Chaplin Films, World War 2 Films

Language: English

The Great Dictator is a 1940 American satirical comedy-drama film written, directed, produced, scored by, and starring British comedian Charlie Chaplin, following the tradition of many of his other films. Having been the only Hollywood filmmaker to continue to make silent films well into the period of sound films, Chaplin made this his first true sound film.

Chaplin's film advanced a stirring condemnation of Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, fascism, antisemitism, and the Nazis. At the time of its first release, the United States was still formally at peace with Nazi Germany and neutral during what were the early days of World War II. Chaplin plays both leading roles: a ruthless fascist dictator and a persecuted Jewish barber.