The Real Charlie Chaplin

A stirring new take on the life and work of one the most elusive cinema icons, revealing a never-previously-broadcast interview.

  • Directors

    Peter Middleton, James Spinney

  • UK 2021. 114min

  • Digital

  • Certificate

    12A

  • An Altitude release

Peter Middleton and James Spinney, directors of the critically acclaimed Notes on Blindness, have crafted an innovative and illuminating documentary about Charles Chaplin, offering new perspectives on his tumultuous life and remarkable career. Deftly blending rich archive material, from photographs to home movies, along with stunning dramatic reconstructions, the film revolves around a revelatory and previously unheard 1966 audio recording - a four-day interview Chaplin gave to Life magazine reporter Richard Meryman. Key moments in the artist's life are investigated: his rise from the slums of Victorian London to fame in Hollywood, his fall from grace following The Great Dictator, via his troubling relationships with women, and his last marriage to Oona O'Neill. It's a fascinating portrait and fresh insight into the life of one of cinema's earliest stars.

Laure Bonville, BFI London Film Festival

Tickets on sale Fri 18 Feb - to BFI Patrons and Champions from 11:30; to BFI Members from 12:30 and on general sale from 16:00.

All screenings will have Audio Description available.

The screenings on Wed 2 Mar 17:50 Studio and Sat 12 Mar 18:00 Studio will be presented with subtitles for the D/deaf and people experiencing hearing loss.

Promotional Partner : Fourpure Brewing, Bermondsey SE16

To enjoy 25% off Fourpure’s webshop simply quote CHAPLIN25BERMO. Valid until 3 March.