A True Star of the Silent Era.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is among the greatest films of the silent era and one of the most influential films in the early years of the horror genre. This is due to a number of inspired elements.
Firstly the highly expressive acting and excellent costume design. The film is able to effectively form an identity for each of the characters without the use of sound, and with limited screen time. This efficient character development is crucial to keeping the viewers invested in the film's excellent and mysterious plot.
Secondly, and possibly most significantly, the set design and visual style. The sets are probably the quintessential example of the "German Expressionist" movement, and its use with the film is simply ingenious when put in context with the ending. The simple but highly effective use of different colour camera tints throughout the film also add to this film's individualistic style. The use of blue tints in night time scenes, pink tints in scenes with romantic undertones and so on is a brilliant example of the film makers taking advantage of every resource available to create atmosphere, tension and to convey character.
Thirdly, the unbelievably effective story. I shall not spoil it here, but this film has one of the most legendary twist endings of all time. The genius of the ending is still powerful to this day and one can only imagine the impact it left on spellbound audiences in 1920. However the story prior to this twist is an effective mystery on its own. The films greatest strength in terms of its storytelling is how it is able to convey so much through its visuals. Be it through the actor's body language or the masterful set design, the film almost doesn't require the exposition provided by the title cards.
In conclusion, I hold this film as a true gem of the silent era, and amongst the most important early horror films. Brilliant is an understatement.
Firstly the highly expressive acting and excellent costume design. The film is able to effectively form an identity for each of the characters without the use of sound, and with limited screen time. This efficient character development is crucial to keeping the viewers invested in the film's excellent and mysterious plot.
Secondly, and possibly most significantly, the set design and visual style. The sets are probably the quintessential example of the "German Expressionist" movement, and its use with the film is simply ingenious when put in context with the ending. The simple but highly effective use of different colour camera tints throughout the film also add to this film's individualistic style. The use of blue tints in night time scenes, pink tints in scenes with romantic undertones and so on is a brilliant example of the film makers taking advantage of every resource available to create atmosphere, tension and to convey character.
Thirdly, the unbelievably effective story. I shall not spoil it here, but this film has one of the most legendary twist endings of all time. The genius of the ending is still powerful to this day and one can only imagine the impact it left on spellbound audiences in 1920. However the story prior to this twist is an effective mystery on its own. The films greatest strength in terms of its storytelling is how it is able to convey so much through its visuals. Be it through the actor's body language or the masterful set design, the film almost doesn't require the exposition provided by the title cards.
In conclusion, I hold this film as a true gem of the silent era, and amongst the most important early horror films. Brilliant is an understatement.
Originally posted 30/6/14 on IMDB.com
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