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
1 comment:
That's quite a demotion, from the door to the toilets. I've never heard of this film, but it sounds strangely compelling.
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