A Countess from Hong Kong

Chaplin’s final feature as writer, director and composer – and his only film in colour – is a bright and breezy screwball comedy set predominately on a cruise ship traversing the Pacific. Starring Loren as a Russian countess-turned-refugee without a passport, the story unfolds when she tries to escape prostitution by sneaking into an American diplomat’s ship cabin in the hope of fleeing. What ensues is a ridiculous, yet consistently entertaining romp that expertly showcases Loren’s aptitude for physical comedy. The film also includes the director’s final onscreen appearance, as well as parts for four of his children.