The Accusations That Sent Charlie Chaplin Into Exile

This podcast episode explores the controversies surrounding Charlie Chaplin and his film "The Great Dictator," which satirized Hitler. Despite facing opposition from various parties, including Hollywood, the British Foreign Office, and the American Congress, Chaplin remained determined to make the film. He believed in the importance of raising awareness of the dangers of fascism. The episode also delves into the extensive FBI investigation of Chaplin and his association with friends who were members of the Communist Party during the Red Scare. It discusses Chaplin's ban from returning to the U.S., the banning of his films in America for 12 years, and the impact of his exile on his artistic career. The episode concludes by highlighting Chaplin's early life and upbringing, his acceptance speech at the Oscars, and a review of The Rolling Stones' new album.