The word “fascism” gets thrown around a lot these days. In fact, it’s so overused that if you’re in the political sphere and haven’t been labeled a fascist, you’re probably doing something wrong.
The term “fascism” comes from the Italian word “fascio,” meaning “a bundle” or “group,” which in turn comes from the Latin “fasces,” a symbol of authority in ancient Rome that represented strength through unity. Mussolini famously used this concept to symbolize a united and strong Italy under authoritarian rule.
But while Mussolini was the original fascist, Adolph Hitler took the concept to a new level.
Hitler’s rise to power in Germany in the 1930s was alarming, but many politicians and public figures in the United States and Europe hesitated to criticize the Nazi regime, maintaining instead a quiet neutrality. However, one world-famous entertainer used his influence as a filmmaker to confront the growing threat.
Charlie Chaplin’s decision to mock Hitler through comedy came at a time when most public figures feared the political and social ramifications of doing so. In fact, Hollywood was largely reluctant to engage in anti-Nazi rhetoric because of Germany’s significant influence on the international film market. But Chaplin would not be deterred.
“The Great Dictator” features Chaplin playing dual roles. On one hand, he portrays a humble Jewish barber who has been mistakenly imprisoned in a concentration camp for 20 years after World War I. On the other, he plays Adenoid Hynkel, a thinly veiled parody of Adolf Hitler, the fascist dictator of the fictional country of Tomainia.
Hynkel’s absurdity is on full display throughout the film. In one of the most famous scenes, Hynkel dances with a globe-shaped balloon, a symbol of his megalomania and desire to dominate the world. The portrayal highlights Chaplin’s ability to capture both the comedic and the terrifying nature of Hitler’s deranged personality.
However, the film’s climax is anything but comedic. In the final scene, the Jewish barber, who is mistaken for Hynkel, is forced to deliver a speech to rally Tomainia’s military. Instead of continuing the farce, Chaplin drops the act and delivers a passionate plea for peace, democracy, and humanity to the viewing audience. This speech is one of the most famous in film history:
“I’m sorry, but I don’t want to be an emperor. That’s not my business. I don’t want to rule or conquer anyone. I should like to help everyone if possible—Jew, Gentile, Black man, White… The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people…”
The speech was shocking not just because it was unexpected, but because it was Chaplin directly addressing the audience, breaking the “fourth wall,” and calling for action against oppression and dictatorship. He urged the world to reject hate and authoritarianism, a move many considered insane for a comedian whose fame was built on slapstick humor.
Despite the risks, “The Great Dictator” was a commercial success and the highest-grossing film of Chaplin’s career. However, it was also met with controversy as the film was banned in several countries, including Nazi-occupied Europe.
Chaplin later said that he would not have made the film had he known the full extent of the horrors of the Holocaust, but “The Great Dictator” remains a landmark in film history for its audacity and relevance. It showed that comedy could be used as a powerful weapon against tyranny and cemented Chaplin’s reputation not just as a great comedian but also as a filmmaker willing to take a stand on important issues.
In this week’s feature, “Joker: Folie à Deux,” we find another funnyman trying to make a point, except in this case, he’s the one instituting the terror.
Joaquin Phoenix reprises his role as Arthur Fleck, the troubled outcast looking for acceptance in a world that seems intent on loathing him. However, as his alter-ego, the Joker, he finds adoration among the other despondent castaways of Gotham.
There’s a lot of controversy around this film, given that it was not marketed as a musical, but that is, in fact, what it is. Most viewers are caught off guard by this revelation, resulting in less-than-stellar reviews. Personally, I wasn’t totally offended by the approach, but anyone looking for a replay of the first film (which was chillingly amazing), will be sorely disappointed.
Check this one out if you simply have to see what all the fuss is about, or if you happen to be a Lady Gaga fan (who gives a great portrayal as Harley Quinn). Otherwise, this is an easy one to wait for release on video.
A melodic “C+” for “Joker: Folie à Deux,” now playing in theaters everywhere.
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