Madame DuBarry is a 1919 German silent film on the life of Madame Du Barry. It was directed by Ernst Lubitsch, written by Norbert Falk and Hanns Kräly with the title role taken by Pola Negri and Louis XV played by Emil Jannings. Its alternative title for United States distribution was Passion.

 Available on YouTube 

Madame DuBarry is a 1919 German silent film on the life of Madame Du Barry. It was directed by Ernst Lubitsch, written by Norbert Falk and Hanns Kräly with the title role taken by Pola Negri and Louis XV played by Emil Jannings. Its alternative title for United States distribution was Passion.

Ernst Lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United States

Lubitsch directed two of my favourite movies, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be.

I am currently reading Ernst Lubitsch- A Biography: Laughter in Paradise by Scott Eyman. I learned of the close artistic relationship between Pola Negri and Ernst Lubitsch from this marvelous book.

"A new addition to the Lubitsch ménage was Pola Negri, who would become his primary object of female contemplation for the next four years. Aggressive where Ossi Oswalda was passive, ferociously sexual where Oswalda was girlish, Negri’s mere presence changed the chemistry of Ernst’s films, and of his surroundings. A naturally imperious personality, born in Poland sometime between 1899 (her date) and 1894 (the likely date), Negri would become virtually the only person who ever referred to Lubitsch as “Ernie.”...I believe she was one of the most vital persons I have ever known,” he would say of her in 1938, “combining those two most important requisites—natural color (the art of being talked and written about) and a highly developed and sensitive artistic instinct.” From Ernst Lubitsch Laughter in Paradise 

Madame du Barry is a 1919 German silent historical film directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring Pola Negri as Jeanne du Barry, the last mistress of King Louis XV of France. The film was a commercial success and helped to establish Lubitsch's reputation as a major filmmaker.

The film tells the story of Jeanne du Barry's rise from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful women in France. She is a beautiful and ambitious woman who uses her charms to seduce King Louis XV and gain his favor. However, her rise to power is met with envy and resentment from the nobility, and she eventually falls victim to the French Revolution.

Lubitsch's direction is stylish and sophisticated, and he makes use of opulent sets and costumes to create a visually stunning film. Negri gives a captivating performance as Jeanne du Barry, and she is well-supported by a cast that includes Emil Jannings as King Louis XV.

Madame du Barry is a fascinating and entertaining film that is considered to be one of Lubitsch's best works. It is a must-see for fans of silent cinema and historical drama.

The film's title is a reference to the famous French perfume house, which was founded in 1775. The perfume was named after Madame du Barry, and it was said to be one of her favorites.

Madame du Barry is a lavishly produced film, with opulent sets and costumes. The film is also notable for its use of close-ups and its innovative camera techniques.

The film was released in Germany on September 18, 1919. It was released in the United States on November 24, 1920. 

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 2023

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

My Darling Clementine- A 1946 American Movie Directed by John Ford - Starring Henry Fonda - 1 Hour 46 Minutes

John Ford

Born: February 1, 1894, Cape Elizabeth, Maine, United States

Died: August 31, 1973, Palm Desert, California, United States

"He received six Academy Awards including a record four wins for Best Director for The Informer (1935), The Grapes of Wrath (1940), How Green Was My Valley (1941), and The Quiet Man (1952). He is renowned for Westerns such as Stagecoach (1939), My Darling Clementine (1946), Fort Apache (1948), The Searchers (1956), and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962).

In a career of more than 50 years, Ford directed more than 140 films (although most of his silent films are now lost). Ford's work was held in high regard by his contemporaries, with Akira Kurosawa, Orson Welles and Ingmar Bergman naming him one of the greatest directors of all time." Wikipedia 

My Darling Clementine is a 1946 American Western film directed by John Ford and starring Henry Fonda as Wyatt Earp, Victor Mature as Doc Holliday, and Linda Darnell as Clementine Carter. The film is a semi-fictionalized account of the events leading up to and including the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

My Darling Clementine was released to critical acclaim, and it is considered one of the greatest Westerns ever made. The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of the American West, its strong performances, and its unforgettable characters.

Here are some of the things that make My Darling Clementine a classic:

• John Ford's direction: Ford was a master of the Western genre, and he directed My Darling Clementine with a sure hand. The film is beautifully shot, and it captures the feel of the American West in the 1880s.

• Henry Fonda's performance: Fonda gives a nuanced and understated performance as Wyatt Earp. He captures the character's strength, intelligence, and compassion.

• Victor Mature's performance: Mature is excellent as Doc Holliday, a gambler with tuberculosis who is also a brilliant gunman. He brings a sense of vulnerability and melancholy to the role.

• Linda Darnell's performance: Darnell is charming as Clementine Carter, a woman who is torn between two men.

• The film's score: The film's score by Dimitri Tiomkin is one of the most iconic in Western film history. The main theme is a haunting melody that perfectly captures the mood of the movie.

 

Black God, White Devil (Portuguese: Deus e o Diabo na Terra do Sol; literally, God and the Devil in the Land of the Sun) is a 1964 Brazilian film directed and written by Glauber Rocha. It was filmed in Monte Santo, Bahia

Glauber de Andrade (14 March 1939 – 22 August 1981), better known as Glauber Rocha, was a Brazilian movie director, actor and screenwriter. He was one of the most important movie directors of Brazilian cinema.   

 Deus e o Diabo na Terra do Sol; literally, God and the Devil in the Land of the Sun) is a 1964 Brazilian film directed and written by Glauber Rocha. It was filmed in Monte Santo, Bahia

Available on YouTube 

Run Time 1 hour 58 Minutes 

Black God, White Devil (Portuguese: Deus e o Diabo na Terra do Sol; literally, God and the Devil in the Land of the Sun) is a 1964 Brazilian film directed and written by Glauber Rocha. It is considered a landmark film of the Cinema Novo movement, and is a scathing critique of the social and political conditions of Brazil in the 1960s.

The film is set in the sertão, the arid backlands of northeastern Brazil, during a period of drought and famine. The story follows Manuel, a ranch hand who kills his boss and flees into the sertão with his wife Rosa. They soon encounter Sebastião, a charismatic religious leader who promises salvation to the poor and oppressed. However, Sebastião's methods are increasingly violent and authoritarian, and Manuel and Rosa soon realize that he is not the messiah he claims to be.

Meanwhile, Corisco, a ruthless bandit, is also roaming the sertão, preying on the weak and vulnerable. Corisco represents the destructive force of capitalism and imperialism, and he is a stark contrast to Sebastião's religious fanaticism.

The film culminates in a violent clash between Sebastião's followers and Corisco's bandits. Manuel and Rosa are caught in the crossfire, and their fate is left uncertain.

Black God, White Devil is a complex and challenging film that has been praised for its innovative style and its powerful political message. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Brazilian cinema or in the history of Latin America.

Here are some of the key themes of the film:

Religion and violence: The film explores the relationship between religion and violence, and how both can be used to control and manipulate people.

Good and evil: The film blurs the lines between good and evil, and suggests that both are necessary for change.

Individuality and society: The film explores the relationship between the individual and society, and how the individual can resist the forces of oppressiIon.

Mel u

The Tin Drum (Die Blechtrommel) - A 1979 German Film Directed by Voler Schlöndorff - 2 Hours 56 Minutes- Based on Gunter Grass's 1959 Novel

The Tin Drum (Die Blechtrommel) - A 1979 German Film Directed by Voler Schlöndorff - 2 Hours 56 Minutes- Based on Gunter Grass's 1959 Novel

Available on YouTube, Dailymotion.com and The Criterion Channel 

I read The Tin Drum by Gunther Grass during German Literature Month November 2013.  Finding the movie online in 2023 was a marvelous surprise 

"I am very glad I have at last read The Tin Drum by Gunter Grass.   It is often listed among the 100 greatest 20th century novels. It is long sprawling account of life in Poland during the few years prior to the Nazi domination up through the war years.  The story is told through the very unreliable narration of Oskar Matzerath.  Oscar decided at age three never to get any bigger physically when he heard his father say he would be a grocer when he grew. He tells us the story partially from a mental hospital where he is confined.  Imagine a collaboration between Rabelais, Pynchon, and Hunter Thompson and you can get a feel for this book. We see how the people in the story, a motley collection of persons close to Oscar including two of his mother's lovers,  deal with and are impacted by the war.  The plot action is very imaginative.  Everyone praises the new translation of Breon Mitchell, which I read, and the quality of the prose is very high.  The novel is grand masterful account of the corruption the war brought to Poland.  Oscar has a weapon in that his voice can shatter all sorts of things.  We are always wondering how accurate are Oscar's perceptions, after all he is in a mental hospital.  I liked this book and I am glad I read it.  It is a challenging book but worth the effort.  It needs to be reread." From my post in 2013.

The Tin Drum (German: Die Blechtrommel) is a 1979 West German satirical war drama film directed by Volker Schlöndorff from a screenplay co-written with Jean-Claude Carrière and Franz Seitz, based on the 1959 novel of the same name by Günter Grass. It stars David Bennent as Oskar Matzerath, a boy born and raised in the Free City of Danzig (now Gdańsk, Poland) prior to and during World War II, who recalls the story's events as an unreliable narrator. The film also features Mario Adorf, Angela Winkler, Katharina Thalbach, Daniel Olbrychski, and Berta Drews in supporting roles.

The Tin Drum chronicles Oskar's life from his birth in 1924 to his adulthood in post-war Germany. At the age of three, Oskar falls down a flight of stairs and stops growing, both physically and mentally. He decides to remain a child and refuses to grow up in a world he sees as filled with hypocrisy and injustice. Oskar's primary weapon against the world is his tin drum, which he uses to shatter glass and make a piercing scream that can stun or even kill people.

The film's narrative is non-linear and often surreal, reflecting Oskar's childlike perspective. It jumps back and forth in time, and Oskar frequently breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly. The film also uses a variety of visual techniques, including black and white, color, and slow motion, to create a dreamlike atmosphere.

The Tin Drum was a critical and commercial success. It won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 52nd Academy Awards, becoming the first German film to do so. It was also nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1979 Cannes Film Festival. The film is considered to be one of the most important German films of all time.

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Mel Ulm 

Playing Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain - A Short Story By Jamil Jan Kochai- Lead Story in his Collection The Haunting of Hajii Hill and Other Stories - 2022

Playing Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain - A Short Story By Jamil Jan Kochai- Lead Story in his Collection The Haunting of Hajii Hill and Other Stories - 2022

 Today's Story, along with several others, can be read on the author's website  (or in a Kindle Sample Edition of the collection.)

https://www.jamiljankochai.com/

"Playing Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain" was originally published in The New Yorker, December 20, 2019. (Reading time approximately ten minutes.)

Jamil Jan Kochai is a new to me writer I have now added to my read through list.  He was born in Peshawar, Pakistan in a  camp for Afghanistan refugees.  With his family at age seven he emigrated to California.

He now resides in Sacramento, California. He is a O. Henry Award winner with two published books of fiction.  

Today's story is about a young man whose family emigrated from Lahore to California because the morality police had a death warrant out for his father.  They killed his uncle.  All his life he has heard stories about life in Lahore.   He works at a Taco Bell.  He has a passion for Metal Gear opened games.  A new game has just come out and his cousin works in a game store and gets him a discount.

"When you get to your room, you lock the door and turn up MF Doom on your portable speaker to ward off mothers, fathers, grandmothers, sisters, and brothers who want to harp at you about prayer, Quran, Pashto, Farsi, a new job, new classes, exercise, basketball, jogging, talking, guests, chores, homework help, bathroom help, family time, and usually Madvillainy does the trick. Open the brown paper bag and toss the kush your cousin has stashed with your game because he needs a new smoking buddy and he sees you as a prime target, probably because he thinks you’ve got nothing better to do with your time or you’re not as religious as your brothers or you’re desperate to escape the unrelenting nature of a corporeal existence, and—goddamn, the physical map of Afghanistan that comes with the game is fucking beautiful."

As he plays the opened game he imagines changing the past so his father is not wounded and his uncle not killed. 

I do not wish to say much more about the story Other than to say I highly reccomend this story.  

Jamil Jan Kochai is the author of The Haunting of Hajji Hotak and Other Stories, winner of the 2023 Aspen Words Literary Prize and a finalist for 2022 National Book Award. His debut novel 99 Nights in Logar was a finalist for the Pen/Hemingway Award for Debut Novel. His short stories have appeared in The New Yorker, Ploughshares, Zoetrope, The O. Henry Prize Stories, and The Best American Short Stories. His essays have been published at The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times. Kochai was a Stegner Fellow at Stanford University and a Truman Capote Fellow at the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Currently, he is a Hodder Fellow at Princeton University.  - 

Mel Ulm 

Faust- A 1926 Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau- 1 Hour 46 minutes

 Available on YouTube In 4 k Restoration with a soundtrack 

Roger Ebert's remarks on Faust

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-faust-1926

"Silent films like this deal more in broad concepts than in the subtleties of personality. Like Greek myth and comic books, they present characters clearly defined by their strengths and weaknesses. There's no small talk. Ekman creates an elderly Faust in anguish over his inability to cure plague victims and too proud to admit defeat. The young Faust is led astray by the stirrings in his loins, and the function of Gretchen, I am afraid, is to be the innocent victim of his lust; she wanders through a blizzard with her innocent infant and burns at the stake, all because of her love for the unworthy Faust"  Roger Ebert. 

Faust is an adaptation of the Faust legend, based primarily on the play Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. 

The film stars Gösta Ekman as Faust, an aging alchemist who sells his soul to the devil Mephistopheles (Emil Jannings) in exchange for youth, love, and knowledge. Camilla Horn plays Gretchen, a young woman who is seduced and abandoned by 

Faust is a 1926 German silent fantasy film directed by F. W. Murnau. It is an adaptation of the Faust legend, based primarily on the play Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

The film stars Gösta Ekman as Faust, an aging alchemist who sells his soul to the devil Mephistopheles (Emil Jannings) in exchange for youth, love, and knowledge. Camilla Horn plays Gretchen, a young woman who is seduced and abandoned by Faust 

Faust was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It is now considered one of the greatest films of all time, and is praised for its innovative use of special effects, its Expressionist style, and its powerful performances. 

Here are some of the reasons why Faust is considered such a great film:

Its innovative use of special effects. Murnau was a pioneer in the use of special effects, and he used them to create some of the most stunning visuals in cinema history. For example, he used double exposure to create the illusion of Faust flying through the air, and he used miniatures to create the illusion of a giant city

Its Expressionist style. Expressionism was a German art movement that was characterized by its use of distorted shapes, exaggerated features, and bold colors. Murnau used Expressionist techniques to create a visually stunning and emotionally charged film

Its powerful performances. The film features some of the best performances of the silent era. Gösta Ekman is heartbreaking as the tortured Faust, and Emil Jannings is chilling as the devilish Mephistopheles

F. W. Murnau 

Born December 28, 1888

Moved to California in 1926 - he made three silent films for Fox Studios before forming his own company 

—died March 11, 1931, Hollywood, California, - from injuries in an Automobile accident 

His most famous film is Nosferatu, which was featured earlier this month.

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans- A 1927 Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau

 F.W. Murnau, born December 28, 1889, Bielefeld, Germany

Moved to California in 1926 - he made three silent films for Fox Studios before forming his own company 

—died March 11, 1931, Hollywood, California, - from injuries in an Automobile accident 

His most famous film is Nosferatu, which was featured earlier this month.

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

The movie was F.W. Murnau American film debut. It  starrs George O'Brien, Janet Gaynor, and Margaret Livingston. The story was adapted by Carl Mayer from the short story "The Excursion to Tilsit", from the 1917 collection with the same title by Hermann Sudermann.

The film tells the story of a simple farmer (George O'Brien) who lives a quiet life with his wife (Janet Gaynor) in the countryside. However, his peaceful existence is disrupted when he meets a seductive city woman (Margaret Livingston) who tempts him to murder his wife and escape with her to the city.

Murnau uses a variety of innovative filmmaking techniques to create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. The film's use of symbolism, expressionist lighting, and dreamlike sequences is groundbreaking and visually stunning.

Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans was nominated for five Academy Awards, and it won three: Best Unique and Artistic Production, Best Actress in a Leading Role for Janet Gaynor, and Best Cinematography. The film is often  considered to be one of the greatest silent films ever made, and it continues to be praised for its beauty, its originality, and its emotional power.  

Sunrise is a visually stunning film that uses a variety of techniques to create a dreamlike atmosphere. Murnau's use of shadows, light, and close-ups is particularly effective, and the film's sets are also very impressive. The film's score, which was one of the first to be synchronized with the film's action, is also very memorable.

I will next watch his Faust.

Journey into the Night (Der Gang in die Nacht) - A 1921 German Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau - 1 Hour 9 minutes- His Oldest Surviving Film

available on YouTube 

In each of my posts each posts, hopefully ten, on F. W. Murnau I plan to share a documentary I found edifying 

A Post in Participation in German Literature Month XIII- November 2023

F.W. Murnau, born December 28, 1889, Bielefeld, Germany

Moved to California in 1926 - he made three silent films for Fox Studios before forming his own company 

—died March 11, 1931, Hollywood, California, - from injuries in an Automobile accident 

His most famous film is Nosferatu, which was featured earlier this month.

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

F.W. Murnau's 1921 silent film Journey into the Night (German: Der Gang in die Nacht) is a captivating drama that delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, and redemption. The film follows Dr. Eigil Börne, a respectable physician engaged to the devoted Hélène. However, their tranquil life takes an unexpected turn when Börne encounters the captivating cabaret dancer Lily.

Mesmerized by Lily's allure, Börne breaks his engagement to Hélène and pursues a passionate relationship with Lily. Their union is initially filled with euphoria, but their contrasting personalities and Lily's reckless behavior soon lead to turmoil. Börne's finances crumble, forcing him to abandon his city life and seek refuge as a country doctor.

In the tranquil countryside, Börne encounters a blind painter, restoring his sight and rekindling his own sense of purpose. However, news of Hélène's deteriorating health due to heartbreak shatters Börne, causing him to confront the consequences of his choices.

Journey into the Night masterfully blends captivating visuals and poignant storytelling. Murnau's expressive use of shadows, light, and close-ups creates a haunting atmosphere, reflecting the characters' inner struggles and the film's exploration of themes like love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness.

The film's enduring legacy lies in its exploration of human nature's complexities, the consequences of our actions, and the possibility of redemption. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of love and the enduring impact of our choices.

Journey into the Night is considered a seminal work of German Expressionist cinema, captivating audiences with its masterful storytelling and timeless themes. 

Mel u

 

The Last Laugh (German: Der letzte Mann,) is a 1924 German silent film directed by German director F. W. Murnau from a screenplay written by Carl Mayer. The film stars Emil Jannings and Maly Delschaft.

 

A very informative presentation on the early films of F. W. Murnau 

In each of my posts each  posts, hopefully ten, on F. W. Murnau I plan to share a documentary I found edifying 

A Post in Participation in German Literature Month XIII- November 2023

F.W. Murnau, (born December 28, 1889, Bielefeld, Germany

Moved to California in 1926 - he made three silent films for Fox Studios before forming his own company 

—died March 11, 1931, Hollywood, California, - from injuries in an Automobile accident 

His most famous film is Nosferatu, which was featured earlier this month.

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

The Last Laugh is a poignant story of an aging hotel doorman who is demoted to a lowly lavatory attendant. The film stars Emil Jannings, who gives a masterful performance as the proud doorman who is stripped of his identity and dignity when he is forced to take on a menial job. 

Murnau's innovative use of cinematography and editing helps to convey the doorman's emotional turmoil. The film's use of shadows and close-ups create a sense of isolation and despair, while the rapid editing of scenes reflects the doorman's frantic attempts to maintain his composure. 

Despite its somber tone, The Last Laugh is ultimately a hopeful film. The doorman's resilience and compassion shine through, even in his darkest moments. And the film's ending, while somewhat ambiguous, suggests that there is always the possibility of redemption.

The Last Laugh is a classic of silent cinema and a must-see for anyone interested in the history of film

Mel u

The Grand Duke's Finances (Die Finanzen des Großherzogs) - A 1924 German Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau- 1 Hour 54 Minutes

 

There are a number of very good documentary videos on F. W. Murnau on YouTube.  The 16  minute presentation above details his groundbreaking cinematography 

In each subsequent posts, hopefully ten on F. W. Murnau I plan to share a documentary I found edifying 

A Post in Participation in German Literature Month XIII- November 2023

F.W. Murnau, (born December 28, 1889, Bielefeld, Germany

Moved to California in 1926 - he made three silent films for Fox Studios before forming his own company 

—died March 11, 1931, Hollywood, California, - from injuries in an Automobile accident 

His most famous film is Nosferatu, which was featured earlier this month.

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Today's Movie is Available on YouTube with English Subtitles 

Time is widing down on German Literature Month XIII. In terms of films I have decided to focus on the works of the great F. W. Murnau.

(There are a number of his works on YouTube.)

Murnau directed 21 films, 12 still survive.

"F W. Murnau not only exploited new filming techniques such as the use of negative exposure, stop-motion and low angle camera positions, but also made pioneering achievements in terms of film settings, choosing to film both in studios (Faust, The Last Laugh) and on location (Nosferatu, Sunrise). Along with G.W. Pabst, Robert Wiene and Fritz Lang, he established German expressionism as arguably the most significant movement of the silent film era. Working with the best cinematographers and set designers of his time, including Fritz Arno Wagner, Karl Freund, Karl Hoffmann, Walter Rohrig and Hermann Warm, Murnau crafted a body of work which penetrates deeply into the psychic world of his characters and constructs a remarkably distinct cinematic universe." From The Harvard Film Archives 

The film stars Harry Liedtke as the Grand Duke, a well-meaning but hapless ruler who is struggling to keep his country afloat despite its crippling debt. He is constantly pursued by his creditors, led by the menacing usurer Marcowitz, who is determined to collect on the Grand Duke's loans.

In a desperate attempt to save his country, the Grand Duke decides to marry the wealthy Russian Grand Duchess Olga. However, Olga is not interested in marrying the Grand Duke, and her brother, the Crown Prince of Russia, is vehemently opposed to the match.

The Grand Duke's hopes are further dashed when a businessman named Bekker offers him a large sum of money to exploit a sulfur mine on the island. The Grand Duke is torn between the financial benefits of the deal and his concern for the welfare of his subjects.

As the Grand Duke's financial problems mount, he finds himself surrounded by a host of eccentric and comical characters, including a scheming secretary, a lovestruck artist, and a pair of bumbling detectives.

Despite its serious subject matter, The Grand Duke's Finances is a lighthearted and entertaining film that is full of wit and charm. Murnau's direction is inventive and stylish, and the film's performances are all excellent.

Mel u

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen- completed in 1803 but initially published posthumously 1817

 

My goal is to read all of the novels by Jane Austen by April 2024. So far I have read Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility and now Northanger Abbey.  I should have done this in the long ago but better late than never.

Catherine Morland, a naive and imaginative 17-year-old girl from a middle-class family, is invited by her wealthy neighbors, the Allens, to accompany them to Bath for the season. Catherine is thrilled by the prospect of attending balls and making new friends, but she is also consumed by her love of Gothic novels, which have filled her mind with images of mystery, suspense, and hidden chambers.

Upon arriving in Bath, Catherine is immediately drawn to the charismatic and handsome Henry Tilney, the son of the owner of Northanger Abbey, an imposing Gothic mansion. Catherine's imagination runs wild as she envisions the abbey as the setting for a thrilling adventure, complete with secret passages, hidden treasures, and perhaps even a murder.

Catherine's romantic fantasies are further fueled by her acquaintance with John Thorpe, a talkative and charming young man who claims to be related to the Tilneys. John encourages Catherine's fascination with Northanger Abbey, and he even invites her to visit the mansion with him.

When Catherine finally arrives at Northanger Abbey, she is disappointed to find that it is not the sinister and mysterious place she had imagined. However, her imagination is once again ignited when she stumbles upon a locked chest in one of the bedrooms. Catherine convinces herself that the chest contains the remains of a murdered monk, and she sets about uncovering the truth.

Catherine's obsession with the chest leads to a series of misunderstandings and misadventures. She becomes estranged from the Tilneys, who believe she is behaving irrationally, and she even manages to alienate her own friends.

Eventually, Catherine realizes that her imagination has gotten the better of her. She comes to terms with her own naivety, and she learns to distinguish between the fantastical world of Gothic novels and the reality of her own life.

 Northanger Abbey is a coming-of-age story about a young woman who learns to mature and to see the world more realistically. Catherine's journey from naive fantasy to mature understanding is a common theme in Austen's novels.

 Northanger Abbey is also a satire of Gothic novels, which were popular in Austen's time. Austen pokes fun at the genre's conventions, such as its obsession with mystery, suspense, and hidden chambers. She also criticizes the genre's tendency to portray women as helpless and passive victims.

Northanger Abbey is also a novel about social class. Catherine's experiences in Bath and at Northanger Abbey expose her to the world of the wealthy and aristocratic. She learns to navigate the complexities of social etiquette and to recognize the power of wealth 

As my wife and I have three young adult daughters unmarried I think this focuses my attention on the themes of Austen.

Mel Ulm 

The Shape of Water -A 2017 Movie Directed by Guillermo del Toro- Academy Award for Best Picture Two Hours Three Minutes

 Available- with ads - on Amazon Freeve - or for Purchase 

The Shape of Water is the third film directed by Guillermo del Toro I have been privileged to experience. My first was Pan's Labyrinth followed by The Devil’s Backbone.

The Shape of Water is a 2017 romantic fantasy film directed by Guillermo del Toro and written by del Toro and Vanessa Taylor. It stars Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins, Doug Jones, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Octavia Spencer. Set in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland, the film follows a mute custodian at a high-security government laboratory who falls in love with a captured humanoid amphibian creature, and decides to help him escape from death at the hands of an evil colonel.

Elisa Esposito is a mute woman who works as a cleaning lady at a high-security government laboratory in 1962 Baltimore. One day, she encounters a mysterious, scaled creature from South America that has been captured by the government. Elisa develops a unique bond with the creature, despite his physical differences from humans. She learns that he is being held captive and scheduled for dissection, and she decides to help him escape.

Elisa enlists the help of her friend Zelda Fuller, a fellow cleaning lady, and her neighbor's friend, Giles, a closeted gay artist. Together, they devise a plan to free the creature and take him to a safe place where he can live in peace.  Elisa lives above a movie theater and their are numerous movie references.  The theater is The Orpheus.  The color green in numerous variations permeates everything.

Meanwhile, Colonel Richard Strickland, a cruel and ambitious government agent, is determined to capture the creature and exploit its unique abilities for his own purposes. He orders Elisa to be transferred to another department, but she refuses to leave the creature alone. Russian agents are after the creature also.

On the night of the creature's escape, Elisa and Zelda break into the laboratory and rescue him. They take him to Giles' apartment, where he is able to recuperate and learn about human culture. Elisa and the creature develop a deep and passionate relationship, despite the challenges they face due to their different backgrounds and species.

Strickland discovers that the creature is missing and orders a manhunt for Elisa and her accomplices. He captures Elisa and threatens to kill her unless she tells him where the creature is hiding. Elisa refuses to betray her friend, and Strickland is forced to release her.

 The film explores the themes of otherness and belonging. Elisa is an outsider in her own world, both because of her muteness and her outsider status. The creature is also an outsider, a being from another world who is captured and held captive by humans. The film suggests that true connection and love can transcend these differences. Zelda is an African American woman in a very racist environment. People assume Elisa is mute because she is stupid.

 At the heart of the film is a story of love and acceptance. Elisa's love for the creature is unconditional, despite his physical differences from humans. The film suggests that love can be found in the most unexpected places, and that it can bring people together despite their differences. The real passion between Elisa and the creature is in stark contrast to the sex between the colonel and his wife.

The film also celebrates resilience and the power of the human spirit. Elisa and her friends face numerous challenges throughout the film, but they never give up hope and they always find a way to overcome their obstacles. The film suggests that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and courage to pursue our 

The Shape of Water was widely praised by critics, who lauded its acting, screenplay, direction, visuals, production design, cinematography, and musical score. The American Film Institute selected it as one of the top ten films of 2017. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for del Toro. It was also nominated for four Golden Globe Awards and seven BAFTA Awards.

I totally enjoyed The Shape of Water. Sally Hawkins is marvelous.  

The film is rated R 

Mel u

Night Train to Munich- A 1940 British Movie Directed by Carol Reed - Starring Margaret Lockwood and Rex Harrison- 1 Hour 35 Minutes

 Night Train to Munich (1940) is a British thriller film directed by Carol Reed and starring Margaret Lockwood and Rex Harrison. Written by Sidney Gilliat and Frank Launder, based on the 1939 short story Report on a Fugitive by Gordon Wellesley, the film is about an inventor and his daughter who are kidnapped by the Gestapo after the Nazis march into Prague in the prelude to the Second World War. A British secret service agent follows them, disguised as a senior German army officer pretending to woo the daughter over to the Nazi cause.

The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $2 million at the box office. It was praised for its suspenseful plot, its sharp dialogue, and its performances, particularly from Lockwood and Harrison. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Picture and Best Actress for Lockwood.

Night Train to Munich is considered to be one of the best British films of the 1940s, and it is often cited as a precursor to the spy films of the Cold War era. The film is a suspenseful and thrilling ride that captures the atmosphere of fear and paranoia that prevailed in Europe during the early days of World War I

Here are some of the things that make Night Train to Munich so special:

Its suspenseful plot: The film is a fast-paced and suspenseful thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Its sharp dialogue: The film's dialogue is witty and intelligent, and it adds to the overall suspense and excitement.

Its performances: The film features strong performances from its lead actors, particularly Margaret Lockwood and Rex Harrison.

Its atmospheric setting: The film's setting in Prague and Vienna during the early days of World War II creates a sense of foreboding and danger.

Winter Light - A 1963 Movie Directed by Ingmar Bergman- 81 Minutes

 Available on YouTube 

I found Roger Ebert's remarks on Winter Light very illuminating 

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-winter-light-1962

Winter Light is the fourth film directed by Ingmar Bergman upon which I have posted. Prior to this I watched The Seventh Seal, Persona and Wild Strawberries.

I would welcome suggestions as to additional of Bergman's films I should seek out.

Like Wild Strawberries, a central character in Winter Light is a widower in his mid- seventies, as am I.  Of course this focuses my response to the film.

Winter Light (Nattvardsgästerna) is a 1963 Swedish black-and-white drama film written and directed by Ingmar Bergman and starring Gunnar Björnstrand, Ingrid Thulin, and Max von Sydow. It follows Tomas Ericsson (Björnstrand), a pastor in a small fishing village in northern Sweden, as he grapples with his faith in the face of personal tragedy and the existential dread of his parishioners. 

The film is considered to be one of Bergman's most profound and personal works, and it has been praised for its stark realism, its exploration of religious faith, and its performances.

Bergman himself said that Winter Light was "a film about God and the silence of God," and it is clear that the film is deeply concerned with the question of faith in a world that seems increasingly devoid of meaning. Tomas's struggle to reconcile his own doubts with the needs of his parishioners is at the heart of the film, and it is a struggle that resonates with many viewers.

Winter Light is a challenging and demanding film, but it is also a rewarding one. It is a film that asks difficult questions about the nature of faith and the meaning of life, and it does not provide easy answers. But it is a film that is ultimately hopeful, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is still room for love and compassion.

Here are some of the themes explored in Winter Light:

Faith and doubt. Tomas's struggle to reconcile his own doubts with the needs of his parishioners is at the heart of the film.

The meaning of life. The film explores the question of what it means to live a meaningful life in a world that seems increasingly devoid of meaning.

Love and compassion. Despite the bleakness of its setting, Winter Light is a film that is ultimately hopeful, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is still room for love and faith.

"The Little Berliner" - A Short Story by Robert Walser - 1914- translated from the German by Helen Watts - included in Selected Short Stories of Robert Walser

The Little Berliner" - A Short Story by Robert Walser - 1914- translated from the German by Helen Watts - included in Selected Short Stories of Robert Walser

"Since then I have slowly learned to grasp how everything is connected across space and time, the life of the Prussian writer Kleist with that of a Swiss author who claims to have worked as a clerk in a brewery in Thun, the echo of a pistol shot across the Wannsee with the view from a window of the Herisau asylum, Walser’s long walks with my own travels, dates of birth with dates of death, happiness with misfortune, natural history and the history of our industries, that of Heimat with that of exile. On all these paths Walser has been my constant companion. I only need to look up for a moment in my daily work to see him standing somewhere a little apart, the unmistakable figure of the solitary walker just pausing to take in the surroundings." William Sebald

 "The Little Berliner" by Robert Walser, is part of my Participation in German Literature III, hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life 

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Born: April 15, 1878, Biel/Bienne, Switzerland

Died: December 25, 1956, Herisau, Switzerland

Robert Walser is for sure now on my read everything he wrote list. I was glad to see a preface by Susan Sontag, (say what you will but they do not come much smarter than Sontag) included with The Walk and Other Stories by Robert Walser.  

I have already done several posts on short stories by Walser. (You can read Sontag's essay and "Response to a Request" by downloading a sample of The Walk and Other Stories). There is great sadness and loneliness in the stories of Walser. There was a time when people compared Kafka to him, now it is the other way around. Sontag and W. C. Sebald both verify this. Sontag calls Walser "a kind, gentle tempered Beckett". Walser's stories seem to me about the struggle to keep the self  alive in a world where blind conformity is the norm. 

"The Little Berliner" is narrated by the 12 year old daughter of an affluent art dealer, she lives in a rich neighbourhood.  She is an only child.  Her parents are separated, she occasionally stays in Munich with her mother. She has her future all as the wife of a wealthy man mapped out. She does know there are many poor people in Berlin but this is very remote to her, 

I found "The Little Berliner" a delightful story.  

Osaka Elegy (浪華悲歌, Naniwa Erejii) is a 1936 Japanese drama film directed by Kenji Mizoguchi - 1 hour 11 Minutes

 Available on YouTube 

Osaka Elegy (浪華悲歌, Naniwa erejī) is a 1936 Japanese drama film directed by Kenji Mizoguchi. It stars Isuzu Yamada as Ayako Murai, a switchboard operator who becomes the mistress of her boss, Mr. Asai, in order to support her family. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it established Mizoguchi as a major filmmaker.

 Ayako is switchboard operator who lives with her father, a scoundrel who has embezzled money from his company. To save her father from going to prison, Ayako becomes the mistress of her boss, Mr. Asai. She also sends money to her brother, Hiroshi, to paying his tuition.

Ayako's life becomes increasingly difficult as she tries to balance her responsibilities to her family with her own desires. She is constantly worried about her father, who is always getting into trouble. She is also in love with a man named Nishimura, but she knows that she can never marry him because she is a mistress.

Osaka Elegy is a powerful and moving film about the sacrifices that women make for their families. It is a film that is still relevant today, as women continue to struggle to balance their work and family lives.

As a history lesson it gives us a glimpse into life in Japan in the 1930s

"Kenji Mizoguchi (溝口 健二, Mizoguchi Kenji, 16 May 1898 – 24 August 1956) was a Japanese filmmaker who directed roughly one hundred films during his career between 1923 and 1956. His most acclaimed works include The Story of the Last Chrysanthemums (1939), The Life of Oharu (1952), Ugetsu (1953), and Sansho the Bailiff (1954), with the latter three all being awarded at the Venice International Film Festival. A recurring theme of his films was the oppression of women in historical and contemporary Japan." From Bard

I hope to post upon at least the four films mentioned above.

The Love Parade- A 1929 Musical Comedy Directed by Ernst Lubitsch- Starring Maurice Chevalier- 1 Hour 40 Minutes

 Available on YouTube 

Films by German directors are an important part of post World War One German Culture, from  the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimar Republic to the movies of Leni Reisenthal in celebration of Nazi rule, beloved by Goebels, to modern Oscar winners, I am pleased to see German Literature Month XIII now welcomes posts on Films by German Directors

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Ernst lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United 

Ernst lubitsch Directed two of my all time favourite films, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be 

The Love Parade is the eighth movie directed by Ernst Lubitsch so far featured on The Reading Life.  

The film was Lubitsch's first "talkie" and tells the story of a playboy count (Chevalier) who becomes prince consort to the queen of Sylvania (MacDonald). The count, who is used to being a free spirit, finds it difficult to adjust to his new role as a husband and figurehead. The queen, who is bored with her life, is attracted to the count's charm and independence.

The film is notable for its sophisticated humor, its lavish musical numbers, and its performances by Chevalier and MacDonald. It was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish MacDonald as a major star.

The Love Parade was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Chevalier. It won the award for Best Cinematography.

The film was a major influence on later musical comedies, and it is considered a classic early talkie.  The dialogue is delightful and the sets are marvelous 

Weights and Measures ("Die Kapuzinergruft",) by Joseph Roth - 1937 - accompanied by Stefan Zweig's Funeral Observations- translated from the German by David la Fay- 2017 - 112 Pages

 Weights and Measures,  a novella by Joseph Roth, is part of my Participation in German Literature 

Hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life 

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Weights and Measures  tells the story of Anselm Eibenschütz, an artillery officer in the Austro-Hungarian army who leaves his beloved post at the insistence of his wife to take up a civilian job as Inspector of Weights and Measures in a remote backwater near the Russian border.

At first, Eibenschütz attempts to carry out his duties with rectitude and diligence. However, he soon finds himself adrift in a world of petty corruption, bribery, and drunkenness. He is also undone by his passion for the beautiful gypsy Euphemia.

Over time, Eibenschütz's moral compass becomes increasingly corrupted. He begins to accept bribes and overlook irregularities in the weights and measures of the local merchants. He also becomes increasingly dependent on alcohol to numb his pain and loneliness.

In the end, Eibenschütz's downfall is complete. He is dismissed from his job, his wife leaves him, and he is left to live out his days in a drunken stupor.

Weights and Measures is a powerful and haunting novel that explores the themes of corruption, moral decay, and the loss of innocence. It is also a beautiful and evocative portrait of Eastern Europe's borderlands in the early twentieth century.

The novel is notable for its complex and well-developed characters, its rich prose, and its unflinching depiction of the human condition.

Weights and Measures is a very powerful unflincing account of a descent into alcohol to hide from despair, a feeling you have nothing to live for.

Mel u

I am also participating in Novellas in November 

Novellas in November is hosted by Cathy of 746 Books and Rebecca of Bookish Beck.

https://bookishbeck.com/

This is the 14th time I have posted on a work by Joseph Roth. I hold his work in very high esteem.

Their is an image of Joseph Roth and his very close friend Stefan Zweig in the header page of my blog 

JOSEPH ROTH 

Born: September 2, 1894, Brody, Ukraine

Died: May 27, 1939, Paris, France

Spouse: Friederike Reichler (m. 1922–1939)

Partner: Irmgard Keun

His works 

  • The Spider's Web (Das Spinnennetz) (1923, adapted in 1989 into a film of the same name)

Hotel Savoy (1924)

The Rebellion (Die Rebellion) (1924; some editions of the English translation call it simply Rebellion)

"April: The Story of a Love Affair" (April. Die Geschichte einer Liebe) (1925; in The Collected Stories)

"The Blind Mirror" (Der blinde Spiegel) (1925; in The Collected Stories)

Flight without End (Die Flucht ohne Ende) (1927)

Zipper and His Father (Zipper und sein Vater) (1928)

Right and Left (Rechts und links) (1929)

The Silent Prophet (Der stumme Prophet) (1929)

Job (Hiob) (1930)

Perlefter (novel fragment) (1930)

Radetzky March (Radetzkymarsch) (1932; some editions of the English translation call it The Radetzky March)

Fallmerayer the Stationmaster (novella) (Stationschef Fallmerayer) (1933)

The Antichrist (Der Antichrist) (1934)

Tarabas (1934)

"The Bust of the Emperor" (Die Büste des Kaisers) (1934; in The Collected Stories)

Confession of a Murderer (Beichte eines Mörders) (1936)

"Die hundert Tage" ("The Ballad of the Hundred Days") (1936)

Weights and Measures (Das falsche Gewicht) (1937)

The Emperor's Tomb (Die Kapuzinergruft) (1938)

The Legend of the Holy Drinker (Die Legende vom heiligen Trinker) (1939)

The String of Pearls (Die Geschichte von der 1002. Nacht) (1939)

"The Leviathan" (Der Leviathan) (1940; in The Collected Stories)

The Collected Stories of Joseph Roth, trans. by Michael Hofmann, New York: W. W. Norton & Company (2003)

Radetzky March is the acknowledged highest regarded of his novels, my sentimental favourite is The Hotel Savoy.

Weights and Measures tells the story of Anselm Eibenschütz, an artillery officer in the Austro-Hungarian army who leaves his beloved post at the insistence of his wife to take up a civilian job as Inspector of Weights and Measures in a remote backwater near the Russian border.

At first, Eibenschütz attempts to carry out his duties with rectitude and diligence. However, he soon finds himself adrift in a world of petty corruption, bribery, and drunkenness. He is also undone by his passion for the beautiful gypsy Euphemia.

Over time, Eibenschütz's moral compass becomes increasingly corrupted. He begins to accept bribes and overlook irregularities in the weights and measures of the local merchants. He also becomes increasingly dependent on alcohol to numb his pain and loneliness.

In the end, Eibenschütz's downfall is complete. He is dismissed from his job, his wife leaves him, and he is left to live out his days in a drunken stupor.

Weights and Measures is a powerful and haunting novel that explores the themes of corruption, moral decay, and the loss of innocence. It is also a beautiful and evocative portrait of Eastern Europe's borderlands in the early twentieth century.

The novel is notable for its complex and well-developed characters, its rich prose, and its unflinching depiction of the human condition.

Weights and Measures is a very powerful unflincing account of a descent into alcohol to hide from despair, a feeling you have nothing to live for.

The funeral observation by Stefan Zweig is, of course, very interesting.

Mel u