Charlie Chaplin use ("Easy Street", 1917). He often explored these topics ironically, making comedy out of suffering. Social commentary was a feature of Chaplin's films from early in his career, as he portrayed the underdog in a sympathetic light and highlighted the difficulties of the poor. Later, as he developed a keen interest in economics and felt obliged to publicise his views, Chaplin began incorporating overtly political messages into his films. "Modern Times" (1936) depicted factory workers in dismal conditions, "The Great Dictator" (1940) parodied Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini and ended in a speech against nationalism, "Monsieur Verdoux" (1947) criticised war
Charlie Chaplin: Intimate Close-Ups Hale herself vetoed publication of the first version as being too one-sided with regards to Chaplin. Kiernan writes that Hale tried to publish the book in the 1960s, but could not find a publisher. The editor notes that in her memoir, Hale refers to Chaplin as two people: Charlie, the man she fell in love with, and "Mr. Chaplin", the sometimes-cruel film giant and director. The book also includes a listing of Hale's film appearances and a small collection of photographs, including behind-the-scenes images from production of "The Gold Rush" and images of Hale from other film appearances including her