I happened upon this movie accidentally while surfing the net, I had never even heard of it and I am quite a movie fan. In fact, though in the past I've seen clips from Chaplin's early "tramp" movies I did not realize that he had made films when older. While the "tramp" movies were momentarily amusing I was never a big fan of early slapstick. To make a long story short, I checked out this movie out of curiosity and what sounded like an offbeat plot. What a most pleasant surprise. Though I've not seen his other films made in the later years, I have to suspect this is a standout. Far from the Chaplin of bygone days, this performance is nothing short of brilliant. I've also not seen Martha Raye's early films but she is absolutely the perfect foil for Verdoux's treachery. She's outrageous and really pulls it off. The fishing scene brought me to some heartfelt laughs. Totally off the wall. Chaplin plays the perfect charming, enchanting, scoundrel to a tee. I certainly knew his reputation as being a legend in movies, but this movie made me realize why. This is a compelling tragedy as much as a comedy. It is well done and totally absorbing for its 2 hour length. A must see.
Review of Monsieur Verdoux
