Metropolis (1927): Dir: Fritz Lang / Cast: Gustay Frohlich, Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Heinrich George: Absolute masterpiece by director Fritz Lang about man's slavery to machines. Workers file onto an elevator in a haunting manner overseen by their boss who is angered when his son Fleder passes through the gate to observe the operation. Fleder is transfixed on Maria who is a Christ-like figure instructing peace. The boss turns to a mad scientist who constructs a robot in Maria's image. She will lead the people to destruction by destroying the machines. By doing this the operation floods putting workers out of homes. Meanwhile the mad scientist kidnaps Maria thus placing Fleder in a position of heroism. Extraordinary vision of mechanics and magnificent production that put Lang ahead of his time. The machinery is detailed and visualized paving the road to an onslaught of clones that mostly never measure up. Alfred Abel plays the boss who symbolizes man's lack of understanding as well as the portal to improvement. Rudolf Klein-Rogge plays the scientist who symbolizes corruption and defeat. Brigitte Helm as Maria symbolizes peace and the hope for a brighter future. Heinrich George as the foreman represents the common citizen or worker who is deemed an explanation when catastrophe hits. Gustay Frohlich as Fleder represents the willingness to improve. Score: 10 / 10
Review of Metropolis
