Metropolis is a 1927 German expressionist science fiction silent film directed by Fritz Lang and written by Thea von Harbou in collaboration with Lang from von Harbou's 1925 novel of the same name (which was intentionally written as a treatment). It stars Gustav Fröhlich, Alfred Abel, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, and Brigitte Helm. Erich Pommer produced it in the Babelsberg Studios for Universum Film A.G. (UFA). The silent film is regarded as a pioneering science-fiction movie, being among the first feature-length movies of that genre.
The film is set in a futuristic city of Metropolis, where the working class toils underground to power the city's wealthy elite, who live above in luxury. The story follows Freder, the son of the city's Master, who falls in love with Maria, a worker who leads a rebellion against the machines. The film's themes explore the conflict between labor and capital, the potential dangers of technology, and the possibility of a better future.
Metropolis was a critical and commercial success upon its release, but it was also controversial. Some critics accused the film of being too pessimistic, while others praised its groundbreaking visuals and innovative storytelling. The film was also banned in some countries, including the United States, for its depiction of class conflict.
Despite its initial controversy, Metropolis has since been recognized as one of the greatest and most influential films ever made. It has been praised for its groundbreaking special effects, its expressionist visuals, and its prescient depiction of a future divided between the rich and the poor. The film has been cited as an influence by many other science fiction films, including Blade Runner (1982) and Brazil (1985).
In 2001, Metropolis was inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, the first film thus distinguished.
The film's special effects were groundbreaking for their time, and they still hold up today. The film's use of miniatures, matte paintings, and stop-motion animation helped to create a visually stunning and believable world.
The film's expressionist visuals are iconic. The film's use of shadows, distorted angles, and exaggerated sets create a dark and foreboding atmosphere.
The film's story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of technology and the importance of social justice. The film's themes are still relevant today, and they have been explored in many other science fiction films.
Just last week I watched a Startrek Episode taken directly from the plot of Metropolis.
Mel Ulm
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