Monsieur Verdoux (1947)

About Monsieur Verdoux

Directed by Charlie Chaplin, "Monsieur Verdoux" is a dark comedy-drama released in 1947. The plot centers on the story of a gentle bank clerk named Henri Verdoux who loses his job and decides to marry and murder wealthy widows to maintain his family. The story is derived from an idea by Orson Welles who was inspired by the real-life French serial killer Henri Landru.

Making / Production

The film was both produced and directed by Chaplin. It was his first titled-dialogue film and created controversy when it was released due to its dark humor. Despite the controversy, the film offered a unique mix of comedy and tragedy, successfully showing two sides of the central character.

Actors

• Charlie Chaplin as Henri Verdoux - Noted for his gripping portrayal of a complicated character who is both charming and ruthless.
• Martha Raye as Annabella Bonheur - Known for her hilarious performance as one of Verdoux's wealthy, yet clueless wives.
• Mady Correll as Mona Verdoux - Brilliantly played the role of Verdoux's real wife.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was based on an idea from Orson Welles, whom Chaplin later bought the idea from for $5,000.
• This was Chaplin's first true speaking role.
• Despite negative publicity and controversy upon release, the film was nominated for an Academy Award.

Awards

"Monsieur Verdoux" was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Writing (Original Screenplay) in 1948. Despite not winning the award, the nomination was a testament to the film's clever script and Chaplin's ability to adapt from his silent film background.

Quotes

• "Wars, conflict - it's all business."
• "One murder makes a villain; millions, a hero."
• "Numbers sanctify, my good fellow!"

Music, Soundtrack

• Music for the film was primarily original compositions by Chaplin himself.
• One notable piece is "The Spring Song" which plays during several of the film's key scenes.
• The music and soundtrack blend elements of both comedy and tragedy, reflecting the complex nature of the film's story and characters.