german cinema 1920-1940
DESCRIPTION
A brief description of the power of German cinema between the wars from 1920-1940. Covers the overall movement through fantasy and expressionistic film discussing Fritz Lang (Metropolis), FN Murnau (Nosferatu) and Leni Reifenstahl (Triumph of the Will). Explores the decline of cinema under Hitler and the legacy of German cinema in American horror and film noir cinema.TRANSCRIPT
German Cinema
German CinemaExpressionismBold GraphicsArtificial worldsMise en sceneControlled environmentMax RinehartKammerspielfilm:Psychological/small dramasDie neue sachlichkeit(new objectivity)Fantasy and horror popular Caligari
Abstract set designAngled structures
NosferatuHorrorBased on Dracula(obtain rights from Stoker’s widow)Count OrlackF N MurnauLocation shootingAnglesDarknessShadowsInfluence American Horror cinemaHammerRecent blood and gore
MetropolisFritz Lang1926Fantastic setsBrutal regimeWorkers versus societyRobotsFlying carsAnglesSci-Fi
The End Hitler’s tyranny Exodus of most major directors Transformation to sound Use of documentary style
Hollywood’s Germans
Fritz Lang: thrillers/noirs Design/horror film Universal expressionism Lighting/claustrophobic interiors Karl Freund: Dracula/Murders Rue Gregg Toland: lens Kane Noir legacy
Leni Riefenstahl Hitler’s babe? Independent woman Actress Traitor Propagandist Nazi or artist Triumph of the Will/Olympiad Post war work/documentarian Worked with African tribes
Images
A legacy of German cinema in film noir design and shadowy gothic imagery: changed American film