The last film of director Charles Chaplin’s career, A Countess From Hong Kong, is a charming romantic comedy, and apparently his only movie filmed in color. Marlon Brando plays Ogden Mears, a millionaire Politian on a ship from Hong Kong to Hawaii. Sophia Loren costars as Natascha, a Russian Countess fleeing Hong Kong for a better life in America. She hides out in Ogden’s cabin, unbeknownst to him. Upon his alarming discovery, Ogden is miffed and stressed (typical Brando). He confides in his comrade, Harvey, played by Sydney Earle Chaplin, and the two devise a plan of action to get rid of the stowaway. Brando was hardly believable when his character transitioned to lovesick puppy; he is much more authentic when he is shouting and throwing things around. Sophia Loren is a darling, looking ever so glam even in XXL pajamas she wears for most the film.
A Countess from Hong Kong was negatively received by the critics when it was released, and went on to become a commercial and financial flop.
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