Genre
Documentary
Runtime
1h 30min (approximate)
Synopsis
Chaplin: Spirit of the Tramp offers an intimate and heartfelt exploration of Charlie Chaplin’s life, delving into his family ties and Romani heritage that inspired his beloved Tramp character. Directed by Chaplin’s granddaughter, Carmen Chaplin, this documentary provides unprecedented access to the Chaplin estate, weaving together interviews, archival footage, home movies, and film extracts. Featuring insights from family members like Michael Chaplin and Geraldine Chaplin, alongside contemporary Roma artists such as Tony Gatlif and Farruquito, and a special appearance by Johnny Depp, the film celebrates Chaplin’s legacy while uncovering the cultural roots that shaped his genius. A poignant tribute to one of cinema’s greatest icons, this documentary is a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
Cast & Contributors
- Johnny Depp – Himself
- Michael Chaplin – Himself (Charlie Chaplin’s son)
- Geraldine Chaplin – Herself (Charlie Chaplin’s daughter)
- Carmen Chaplin – Herself / Director (Charlie Chaplin’s granddaughter)
- Tony Gatlif – Himself (Renowned Roma filmmaker)
- Stochelo Rosenberg – Himself (Roma musician)
- Lita Cabellut – Herself (Roma artist)
- Farruquito – Himself (Roma flamenco dancer)
- Charles Chaplin – Archival Footage
- Emir Kusturica – Himself (Filmmaker)
- Alba Flores – Herself (Actress)
Crew
- Director: Carmen Chaplin
- Writers: Carmen Chaplin, Ashim Bhalla, Isaki Lacuesta, Amaya Remírez García
- Producers: Wave of Humanity, Basque Films, Atlantika Films
- Co-Producers: Submarine Sublime, Constellation Prods, Kwanon Films, Roy Export
- Cinematography: Kenneth Oribe
- Editor: Julia Juaniz
- Music: Nathaniel Méchaly
- Sales: Film Constellation
Release Dates
- World Premiere: September 2024, San Sebastián International Film Festival (SSIFF)
- Netherlands Release: April 10, 2025 (screening in 14 cinemas)
- Other Regions: Release dates for other regions, including the USA, are not yet confirmed. Fans in the USA have expressed interest in a local release.
Production Companies
- Wave of Humanity
- Basque Films
- Atlantika Films
- In association with Kwanon Films, Roy Export, Submarine Sublime, and Constellation Prods
Additional Notes
- The documentary marks Carmen Chaplin’s directorial feature debut.
- It explores Chaplin’s Romani roots, a lesser-known aspect of his life, and their influence on his iconic Tramp character.
- The film includes rare archival material, providing a fresh perspective on Chaplin’s legacy.
Where to Watch
As of April 25, 2025, Chaplin: Spirit of the Tramp is screening in select cinemas in the Netherlands (e.g., De Bioscoop). Check local listings for showtimes. International release dates and streaming availability are yet to be announced—stay tuned for updates!
Cultural Significance
The focus on Chaplin’s Romani heritage adds a unique angle to his story, connecting his work to broader themes of identity and cultural influence. This aligns with contemporary discussions on representation in cinema, making the documentary timely and relevant. By highlighting how Chaplin’s roots influenced his artistry, the film sheds light on the universal appeal of the Tramp character, whose outsider perspective resonates with audiences worldwide.
Johnny Depp’s Involvement
Johnny Depp’s participation isn’t surprising, given his well-documented admiration for Charlie Chaplin. Depp has often cited Chaplin as an inspiration for his own performances, particularly in films like Benny & Joon (1993), where he paid homage to Chaplin’s physical comedy. His presence in the documentary adds a layer of star power, bridging Chaplin’s legacy with modern cinema.
Comparison to Other Chaplin Documentaries
This isn’t the first documentary about Chaplin. The Real Charlie Chaplin (2021) also explored his life, focusing on his rise to fame and personal struggles, including FBI investigations during the McCarthy era. However, Spirit of the Tramp stands out for its family perspective and cultural lens, offering a more personal take through the Chaplin family’s direct involvement and its emphasis on his Romani heritage.
