THE GREAT DICTATOR (Released to Theaters USA 1940)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì  The Great Dictator—interesting, creative, innovative—is Charles Chaplin's first 'talkie'. It uses satire for the comedic element.   Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images Storyline  A  Jewish soldier of a previous war is recovering in a military hospital while a new ruler takes the soldier's country over,  becomes a dictator of that country, and starts an anti-semitic suppression of all Jews in that country.    Additional Thanks  Thank you to Director Charles Chaplin for directing effort. Thank you to Producer Charlie Chaplin for making the film possible. Cast includes Charles Chaplin, Paulette Goddard, Jack Oakie, Henry Danielle, Reginald Gardiner, Billy Gilbert, and Maurice Moscovich. Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. This is, overall, a very good film that tells a story that is undeniably original.  Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers

MODERN TIMES (Released to Theaters USA 1936)

 

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.0|5.0 Starsìììì  Modern Times—good watch—has a solid, well-written story with an outstanding conclusion. This is one of Charlie Chaplin's mid-career films.  Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images Storyline  A man works at an industrial factory in the 1900s, meets a girl, and desires to make a life for both of them.  Additional Thanks   Thank you to Director Charlie Chaplin for directing effort. Cast includes Charles Chaplin and Paulette Goddard.   Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?  Yes. It is a simple, lovable, worthy watch. Video Critique Available Here: Ben Meyers