Monsieur Verdoux 1947
"A Comedy of Murders."
In the razor-sharp satire Monsieur Verdoux (1947), Charlie Chaplin trades his iconic tramp for a dapper, morally ambiguous banker whose charm masks a chilling secret.
Director: Charlie Chaplin
Cast
Charlie Chaplin
Henri Verdoux
Mady Correll
Mona Verdoux
Allison Roddan
Peter Verdoux
Robert Lewis
Maurice Bottello
Audrey Betz
Martha Bottello
Martha Raye
Annabella Bonheur
Ada May
Annette, Annabella's maid
Isobel Elsom
Marie Grosnay
Marjorie Bennett
Marie's Maid
Helene Heigh
Yvonne La Salle, Marie's friend
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Monsieur Verdoux (1947) about?
The film follows Henri Verdoux, a former banker turned serial killer who targets wealthy widows as a twisted means of supporting his family. As his unconventional career flourishes, two widows disrupt his routine, setting the stage for a psychological unraveling that turns deadly.
Who directed Monsieur Verdoux?
Monsieur Verdoux was directed by Charlie Chaplin, who also stars in the film. Known for his iconic comedic performances, Chaplin showcases his dramatic range in this darker, satirical role.
Who stars in Monsieur Verdoux?
The film features Charlie Chaplin in the lead role, alongside Mady Correll, Allison Roddan, Robert Lewis, and Audrey Betz as key cast members.
Is Monsieur Verdoux (1947) worth watching?
Absolutely, if you appreciate Chaplin's bold departure from slapstick into sharp social commentary. The film's blend of dark humor and moral complexity makes it a standout in his filmography, offering both entertainment and food for thought. Its runtime and genre balance drama and comedy perfectly for a rewarding viewing experience.
How long is Monsieur Verdoux?
Monsieur Verdoux has a runtime of 124 minutes, or just over two hours.
🎥 Trailer
About Monsieur Verdoux (1947) — Chaplin's Dark Comedy of Scandal and Survival
In the razor-sharp satire Monsieur Verdoux (1947), Charlie Chaplin trades his iconic tramp for a dapper, morally ambiguous banker whose charm masks a chilling secret. When Henri Verdoux is left unemployed after years of loyal service, he devises a twisted side hustle: courting wealthy widows, marrying them, and then claiming their fortunes in the most permanent way possible. A master of deception with a sociopathic streak, Verdoux navigates a delicate balance between domesticity and murder, all while maintaining a veneer of respectability.
Directed by Chaplin himself, this dark comedy-drama blends biting wit with unsettling themes of greed and survival, all wrapped in the director's signature blend of pathos and social critique. The film's eerie atmosphere lingers long after the credits roll, challenging audiences to laugh at a protagonist they can't help but condemn. With a runtime of 124 minutes, Monsieur Verdoux (1947) is a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's darker impulses, served with Chaplin's unmistakable flair.
