Metropolis

First and foremost…wow, what a cool movie!  I typically am not a fan of silent flicks because I tend to get too distracted noticing the way actors heavily dramatize themselves in each scene; I completely become disengaged with the storyline altogether.  But with Metropolis, I instantly became involved with the plot and the “overdoing” was not “overdid” this time.

This conception of Fritz Lang was simply a visually stunning film to watch.  For it’s time (released in 1927) the imaginative architectural backdrops were so grandeur.  It’s interesting, though, to note that there are two dramatically different styles of architecture being used.  One referenced a mythic and medieval style.  The other pushed ideas of envisioning a modernist and ultra-industrialized Utopia.  It’s interesting that the idea of total reliance of technology is not only feared by people presently, but even those 80 years ago felt the same way, too.  I’m a huge fan of architecture – the immense underground factory was especially visually appealing.

The Bible heavily influenced Lang’s creative motives, as well.  For example, the social progress of the citizens was diminished to heavy imagery of enslavement (just like the epic and grueling engineering of the construction of the Tower of Babel)- the city being Babel or course.  Also, Lang was greatly ambitious to take on the ever-debatable themes of capitol and labor issues, and political manipulation.

Encircled by all this drama was a blooming love between Freder and Maria. Freder is the son of the city’s ruler and Maria is the “prophetess” who speaks about a future,in which a mediator will unite the hands of the workers and the brains of the rulers- eventually ensuing a revolt.   Although, we quickly learn that the “evil” scientist, Rotwang has perfected a mechanical man that can look like anyone he chooses. He assures Joh (the city’s ruler/ Freder’s father) that this will replace the Workers and become the perfect slave of tomorrow.  Unfortunately Maria becomes the mold from which the robot takes her appearance, to be his forever. 

Regardless of the 2 hour run time, this film is filled with drama from beginning to end.  It’s certainly made its mark in film history.