Lady Windermere's Fan - A 1925 Silent Film Directed by Ernst Lubitsch- 1 Hour 36 minutes- based on Oscar Wilde's 1892 Play

 Lady Windermere's Fan - A 1925 Silent Film Directed by Ernst Lubitsch- 1 Hour 36 minutes- based on Oscar Wilde's 1892 Play

Ernst lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United States

Lubitsch directed two of my favourite movies, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be.

The film tells the story of Lady Windermere (McAvoy), a young woman who suspects her husband, Lord Windermere (Bert Lytell), of having an affair with the notorious Mrs. Erlynne (Rich). When Mrs. Erlynne arrives in London, Lady Windermere becomes convinced that her suspicions are true and decides to leave her husband. However, Mrs. Erlynne reveals that she is actually Lady Windermere's mother, and that she has returned to protect her daughter from making the same mistakes she did.

Lubitsch's film is a masterfully crafted adaptation of Wilde's play. He captures the wit and social satire of the original work, while also adding his own touch of visual flair. The film's silent format allows Lubitsch to use expressive gestures and close-ups to great effect, and his use of light and shadow is particularly striking.

The film was a major critical and commercial success. It was praised for its direction, acting, and technical achievements. It was also a box office hit, grossing over $1 million worldwide.

Lubitsch's film is a masterfully crafted adaptation of Wilde's play. He captures the wit and social satire of the original work, while also adding his own touch of visual flair. The film's silent format allows Lubitsch to use expressive gestures and close-ups to great effect, and his use of light and shadow is particularly striking.

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

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 2023 November 1 to December 7

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

 

Die Augen der Mumie Ma (English: The Eyes of the Mummy or The Eyes of the Mummy Ma) is a 1918 German silent film directed by Ernst Lubitsch. The film stars Pola Negri as Ma, Emil Jannings as Radu, and Harry Liedtke as Wendland

 Available on YouTube 

Die Augen der Mumie Ma (English: The Eyes of the Mummy or The Eyes of the Mummy Ma) is a 1918 German silent film directed by Ernst Lubitsch. The film stars Pola Negri as Ma, Emil Jannings as Radu, and Harry Liedtke as Wendland

Run Time 58 Minutes 

Ernst Lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United States

Lubitsch directed two of my favourite movies, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be.

I am currently reading a very informative biography,  Ernst Lubitsch : Laughter in Paradise by Scott Eyman 

Here is his assessment of today's movie:

"The Eyes of the Mummy Ma is Lubitsch’s stab at the Far Eastern exotica that would pay rich dividends for Fritz Lang and Joe May, but it lacks their hysterical panache; Ernst plays the silly plot for romance rather than thrills. There are some good touches—a lantern that careens wildly during a fight, fitfully illuminating the struggle; a subtle tracking shot as Emil Jannings exerts his hypnotic power over Pola Negri—but there are just as many odd absurdities: Negri awkwardly struggling to haul herself on to a horse, Harry Liedtke struggling to lift Negri and almost failing. Ernst’s staging and blocking lack the fluidity of the comedies that had been animated by his own vigorous sense of humor or the presence of Ossi Oswalda."

The film is about a young painter named Wendland (Liedtke) who travels to Egypt, where he is haunted by the ghost of a beautiful Egyptian princess named Ma (Negri). 

The film is a visually stunning and atmospheric work that is considered to be one of Lubitsch's best films. It is also one of the earliest and most influential horror films. The film's use of lighting, shadow, and camera angles is masterful, and the performances are all excellent. Negri is particularly good as Ma, and she is able to convey both the character's beauty and her sadness.

The film was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its originality, its style, and its performances. The film has also been praised for its feminist themes. Ma is a strong and independent woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself. She is also a victim of male violence, and the film can be seen as a critique of patriarchal society.

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

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 2023 November 1 to December 7

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

 

The Oyster Princess (Die Austernprinzessin) is a 1919 German silent comedy film directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring Victor Janson, Ossi Oswalda and Harry Liedtke. 58 minutes

Ernst lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United States

Lubitsch directed two of my favourite movies, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be.

The film tells the story of Ossi Quaker, the spoiled daughter of an American oyster king, who dreams of marrying a real-life prince. Her father, eager to please her, arranges for her to meet Prince Nucki, an impoverished German nobleman. However, Nucki is wary of Ossi's wealth and sends his friend Josef, a commoner, to pose as the prince in order to assess the situation.

Josef, attracted to Ossi's beauty and wealth, falls in love with her and pretends to be the prince. However, his charade is soon exposed when Ossi's father discovers that Josef is not a real prince. Despite this, Ossi and Josef declare their love for each other, and the film ends with them happily married.

The Oyster Princess is a satirical comedy that pokes fun at the pretensions of the wealthy and the foolishness of social climbing. Lubitsch's direction is deft and witty, and the film is full of clever sight gags and sparkling dialogue. Oswalda is delightful as the spoiled Ossi, and Liedtke and Falkenstein are equally good as the two.

Lubitsch also emulates Griffith in the unfortunate custom of using white actors in blackface.

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

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 2023 November 1 to December 7

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

 

Madame DuBarry is a 1919 German silent film on the life of Madame Du Barry. It was directed by Ernst Lubitsch, written by Norbert Falk and Hanns Kräly with the title role taken by Pola Negri and Louis XV played by Emil Jannings. Its alternative title for United States distribution was Passion.

 Available on YouTube 

Madame DuBarry is a 1919 German silent film on the life of Madame Du Barry. It was directed by Ernst Lubitsch, written by Norbert Falk and Hanns Kräly with the title role taken by Pola Negri and Louis XV played by Emil Jannings. Its alternative title for United States distribution was Passion.

Ernst Lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United States

Lubitsch directed two of my favourite movies, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be.

I am currently reading Ernst Lubitsch- A Biography: Laughter in Paradise by Scott Eyman. I learned of the close artistic relationship between Pola Negri and Ernst Lubitsch from this marvelous book.

"A new addition to the Lubitsch ménage was Pola Negri, who would become his primary object of female contemplation for the next four years. Aggressive where Ossi Oswalda was passive, ferociously sexual where Oswalda was girlish, Negri’s mere presence changed the chemistry of Ernst’s films, and of his surroundings. A naturally imperious personality, born in Poland sometime between 1899 (her date) and 1894 (the likely date), Negri would become virtually the only person who ever referred to Lubitsch as “Ernie.”...I believe she was one of the most vital persons I have ever known,” he would say of her in 1938, “combining those two most important requisites—natural color (the art of being talked and written about) and a highly developed and sensitive artistic instinct.” From Ernst Lubitsch Laughter in Paradise 

Madame du Barry is a 1919 German silent historical film directed by Ernst Lubitsch and starring Pola Negri as Jeanne du Barry, the last mistress of King Louis XV of France. The film was a commercial success and helped to establish Lubitsch's reputation as a major filmmaker.

The film tells the story of Jeanne du Barry's rise from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful women in France. She is a beautiful and ambitious woman who uses her charms to seduce King Louis XV and gain his favor. However, her rise to power is met with envy and resentment from the nobility, and she eventually falls victim to the French Revolution.

Lubitsch's direction is stylish and sophisticated, and he makes use of opulent sets and costumes to create a visually stunning film. Negri gives a captivating performance as Jeanne du Barry, and she is well-supported by a cast that includes Emil Jannings as King Louis XV.

Madame du Barry is a fascinating and entertaining film that is considered to be one of Lubitsch's best works. It is a must-see for fans of silent cinema and historical drama.

The film's title is a reference to the famous French perfume house, which was founded in 1775. The perfume was named after Madame du Barry, and it was said to be one of her favorites.

Madame du Barry is a lavishly produced film, with opulent sets and costumes. The film is also notable for its use of close-ups and its innovative camera techniques.

The film was released in Germany on September 18, 1919. It was released in the United States on November 24, 1920. 

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

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 2023

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

My Darling Clementine- A 1946 American Movie Directed by John Ford - Starring Henry Fonda - 1 Hour 46 Minutes

John Ford

Born: February 1, 1894, Cape Elizabeth, Maine, United States

Died: August 31, 1973, Palm Desert, California, United States

"He received six Academy Awards including a record four wins for Best Director for The Informer (1935), The Grapes of Wrath (1940), How Green Was My Valley (1941), and The Quiet Man (1952). He is renowned for Westerns such as Stagecoach (1939), My Darling Clementine (1946), Fort Apache (1948), The Searchers (1956), and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962).

In a career of more than 50 years, Ford directed more than 140 films (although most of his silent films are now lost). Ford's work was held in high regard by his contemporaries, with Akira Kurosawa, Orson Welles and Ingmar Bergman naming him one of the greatest directors of all time." Wikipedia 

My Darling Clementine is a 1946 American Western film directed by John Ford and starring Henry Fonda as Wyatt Earp, Victor Mature as Doc Holliday, and Linda Darnell as Clementine Carter. The film is a semi-fictionalized account of the events leading up to and including the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

My Darling Clementine was released to critical acclaim, and it is considered one of the greatest Westerns ever made. The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of the American West, its strong performances, and its unforgettable characters.

Here are some of the things that make My Darling Clementine a classic:

• John Ford's direction: Ford was a master of the Western genre, and he directed My Darling Clementine with a sure hand. The film is beautifully shot, and it captures the feel of the American West in the 1880s.

• Henry Fonda's performance: Fonda gives a nuanced and understated performance as Wyatt Earp. He captures the character's strength, intelligence, and compassion.

• Victor Mature's performance: Mature is excellent as Doc Holliday, a gambler with tuberculosis who is also a brilliant gunman. He brings a sense of vulnerability and melancholy to the role.

• Linda Darnell's performance: Darnell is charming as Clementine Carter, a woman who is torn between two men.

• The film's score: The film's score by Dimitri Tiomkin is one of the most iconic in Western film history. The main theme is a haunting melody that perfectly captures the mood of the movie.

 

The Tin Drum (Die Blechtrommel) - A 1979 German Film Directed by Voler Schlöndorff - 2 Hours 56 Minutes- Based on Gunter Grass's 1959 Novel

The Tin Drum (Die Blechtrommel) - A 1979 German Film Directed by Voler Schlöndorff - 2 Hours 56 Minutes- Based on Gunter Grass's 1959 Novel

Available on YouTube, Dailymotion.com and The Criterion Channel 

I read The Tin Drum by Gunther Grass during German Literature Month November 2013.  Finding the movie online in 2023 was a marvelous surprise 

"I am very glad I have at last read The Tin Drum by Gunter Grass.   It is often listed among the 100 greatest 20th century novels. It is long sprawling account of life in Poland during the few years prior to the Nazi domination up through the war years.  The story is told through the very unreliable narration of Oskar Matzerath.  Oscar decided at age three never to get any bigger physically when he heard his father say he would be a grocer when he grew. He tells us the story partially from a mental hospital where he is confined.  Imagine a collaboration between Rabelais, Pynchon, and Hunter Thompson and you can get a feel for this book. We see how the people in the story, a motley collection of persons close to Oscar including two of his mother's lovers,  deal with and are impacted by the war.  The plot action is very imaginative.  Everyone praises the new translation of Breon Mitchell, which I read, and the quality of the prose is very high.  The novel is grand masterful account of the corruption the war brought to Poland.  Oscar has a weapon in that his voice can shatter all sorts of things.  We are always wondering how accurate are Oscar's perceptions, after all he is in a mental hospital.  I liked this book and I am glad I read it.  It is a challenging book but worth the effort.  It needs to be reread." From my post in 2013.

The Tin Drum (German: Die Blechtrommel) is a 1979 West German satirical war drama film directed by Volker Schlöndorff from a screenplay co-written with Jean-Claude Carrière and Franz Seitz, based on the 1959 novel of the same name by Günter Grass. It stars David Bennent as Oskar Matzerath, a boy born and raised in the Free City of Danzig (now Gdańsk, Poland) prior to and during World War II, who recalls the story's events as an unreliable narrator. The film also features Mario Adorf, Angela Winkler, Katharina Thalbach, Daniel Olbrychski, and Berta Drews in supporting roles.

The Tin Drum chronicles Oskar's life from his birth in 1924 to his adulthood in post-war Germany. At the age of three, Oskar falls down a flight of stairs and stops growing, both physically and mentally. He decides to remain a child and refuses to grow up in a world he sees as filled with hypocrisy and injustice. Oskar's primary weapon against the world is his tin drum, which he uses to shatter glass and make a piercing scream that can stun or even kill people.

The film's narrative is non-linear and often surreal, reflecting Oskar's childlike perspective. It jumps back and forth in time, and Oskar frequently breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly. The film also uses a variety of visual techniques, including black and white, color, and slow motion, to create a dreamlike atmosphere.

The Tin Drum was a critical and commercial success. It won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 52nd Academy Awards, becoming the first German film to do so. It was also nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1979 Cannes Film Festival. The film is considered to be one of the most important German films of all time.

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

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Mel Ulm 

Faust- A 1926 Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau- 1 Hour 46 minutes

 Available on YouTube In 4 k Restoration with a soundtrack 

Roger Ebert's remarks on Faust

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-faust-1926

"Silent films like this deal more in broad concepts than in the subtleties of personality. Like Greek myth and comic books, they present characters clearly defined by their strengths and weaknesses. There's no small talk. Ekman creates an elderly Faust in anguish over his inability to cure plague victims and too proud to admit defeat. The young Faust is led astray by the stirrings in his loins, and the function of Gretchen, I am afraid, is to be the innocent victim of his lust; she wanders through a blizzard with her innocent infant and burns at the stake, all because of her love for the unworthy Faust"  Roger Ebert. 

Faust is an adaptation of the Faust legend, based primarily on the play Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. 

The film stars Gösta Ekman as Faust, an aging alchemist who sells his soul to the devil Mephistopheles (Emil Jannings) in exchange for youth, love, and knowledge. Camilla Horn plays Gretchen, a young woman who is seduced and abandoned by 

Faust is a 1926 German silent fantasy film directed by F. W. Murnau. It is an adaptation of the Faust legend, based primarily on the play Faust by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

The film stars Gösta Ekman as Faust, an aging alchemist who sells his soul to the devil Mephistopheles (Emil Jannings) in exchange for youth, love, and knowledge. Camilla Horn plays Gretchen, a young woman who is seduced and abandoned by Faust 

Faust was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It is now considered one of the greatest films of all time, and is praised for its innovative use of special effects, its Expressionist style, and its powerful performances. 

Here are some of the reasons why Faust is considered such a great film:

Its innovative use of special effects. Murnau was a pioneer in the use of special effects, and he used them to create some of the most stunning visuals in cinema history. For example, he used double exposure to create the illusion of Faust flying through the air, and he used miniatures to create the illusion of a giant city

Its Expressionist style. Expressionism was a German art movement that was characterized by its use of distorted shapes, exaggerated features, and bold colors. Murnau used Expressionist techniques to create a visually stunning and emotionally charged film

Its powerful performances. The film features some of the best performances of the silent era. Gösta Ekman is heartbreaking as the tortured Faust, and Emil Jannings is chilling as the devilish Mephistopheles

F. W. Murnau 

Born December 28, 1888

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

This is a post for German Literature Month XIII 

German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

Journey into the Night (Der Gang in die Nacht) - A 1921 German Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau - 1 Hour 9 minutes- His Oldest Surviving Film

available on YouTube 

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/

F.W. Murnau's 1921 silent film Journey into the Night (German: Der Gang in die Nacht) is a captivating drama that delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, and redemption. The film follows Dr. Eigil Börne, a respectable physician engaged to the devoted Hélène. However, their tranquil life takes an unexpected turn when Börne encounters the captivating cabaret dancer Lily.

Mesmerized by Lily's allure, Börne breaks his engagement to Hélène and pursues a passionate relationship with Lily. Their union is initially filled with euphoria, but their contrasting personalities and Lily's reckless behavior soon lead to turmoil. Börne's finances crumble, forcing him to abandon his city life and seek refuge as a country doctor.

In the tranquil countryside, Börne encounters a blind painter, restoring his sight and rekindling his own sense of purpose. However, news of Hélène's deteriorating health due to heartbreak shatters Börne, causing him to confront the consequences of his choices.

Journey into the Night masterfully blends captivating visuals and poignant storytelling. Murnau's expressive use of shadows, light, and close-ups creates a haunting atmosphere, reflecting the characters' inner struggles and the film's exploration of themes like love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness.

The film's enduring legacy lies in its exploration of human nature's complexities, the consequences of our actions, and the possibility of redemption. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of love and the enduring impact of our choices.

Journey into the Night is considered a seminal work of German Expressionist cinema, captivating audiences with its masterful storytelling and timeless themes. 

Mel u

 

The Last Laugh (German: Der letzte Mann,) is a 1924 German silent film directed by German director F. W. Murnau from a screenplay written by Carl Mayer. The film stars Emil Jannings and Maly Delschaft.

 

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

The Grand Duke's Finances (Die Finanzen des Großherzogs) - A 1924 German Silent Film Directed by F. W. Murnau- 1 Hour 54 Minutes

 

There are a number of very good documentary videos on F. W. Murnau on YouTube.  The 16  minute presentation above details his groundbreaking cinematography 

In each subsequent 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/

Today's Movie is Available on YouTube with English Subtitles 

Time is widing down on German Literature Month XIII. In terms of films I have decided to focus on the works of the great F. W. Murnau.

(There are a number of his works on YouTube.)

Murnau directed 21 films, 12 still survive.

"F W. Murnau not only exploited new filming techniques such as the use of negative exposure, stop-motion and low angle camera positions, but also made pioneering achievements in terms of film settings, choosing to film both in studios (Faust, The Last Laugh) and on location (Nosferatu, Sunrise). Along with G.W. Pabst, Robert Wiene and Fritz Lang, he established German expressionism as arguably the most significant movement of the silent film era. Working with the best cinematographers and set designers of his time, including Fritz Arno Wagner, Karl Freund, Karl Hoffmann, Walter Rohrig and Hermann Warm, Murnau crafted a body of work which penetrates deeply into the psychic world of his characters and constructs a remarkably distinct cinematic universe." From The Harvard Film Archives 

The film stars Harry Liedtke as the Grand Duke, a well-meaning but hapless ruler who is struggling to keep his country afloat despite its crippling debt. He is constantly pursued by his creditors, led by the menacing usurer Marcowitz, who is determined to collect on the Grand Duke's loans.

In a desperate attempt to save his country, the Grand Duke decides to marry the wealthy Russian Grand Duchess Olga. However, Olga is not interested in marrying the Grand Duke, and her brother, the Crown Prince of Russia, is vehemently opposed to the match.

The Grand Duke's hopes are further dashed when a businessman named Bekker offers him a large sum of money to exploit a sulfur mine on the island. The Grand Duke is torn between the financial benefits of the deal and his concern for the welfare of his subjects.

As the Grand Duke's financial problems mount, he finds himself surrounded by a host of eccentric and comical characters, including a scheming secretary, a lovestruck artist, and a pair of bumbling detectives.

Despite its serious subject matter, The Grand Duke's Finances is a lighthearted and entertaining film that is full of wit and charm. Murnau's direction is inventive and stylish, and the film's performances are all excellent.

Mel u

The Shape of Water -A 2017 Movie Directed by Guillermo del Toro- Academy Award for Best Picture Two Hours Three Minutes

 Available- with ads - on Amazon Freeve - or for Purchase 

The Shape of Water is the third film directed by Guillermo del Toro I have been privileged to experience. My first was Pan's Labyrinth followed by The Devil’s Backbone.

The Shape of Water is a 2017 romantic fantasy film directed by Guillermo del Toro and written by del Toro and Vanessa Taylor. It stars Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins, Doug Jones, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Octavia Spencer. Set in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland, the film follows a mute custodian at a high-security government laboratory who falls in love with a captured humanoid amphibian creature, and decides to help him escape from death at the hands of an evil colonel.

Elisa Esposito is a mute woman who works as a cleaning lady at a high-security government laboratory in 1962 Baltimore. One day, she encounters a mysterious, scaled creature from South America that has been captured by the government. Elisa develops a unique bond with the creature, despite his physical differences from humans. She learns that he is being held captive and scheduled for dissection, and she decides to help him escape.

Elisa enlists the help of her friend Zelda Fuller, a fellow cleaning lady, and her neighbor's friend, Giles, a closeted gay artist. Together, they devise a plan to free the creature and take him to a safe place where he can live in peace.  Elisa lives above a movie theater and their are numerous movie references.  The theater is The Orpheus.  The color green in numerous variations permeates everything.

Meanwhile, Colonel Richard Strickland, a cruel and ambitious government agent, is determined to capture the creature and exploit its unique abilities for his own purposes. He orders Elisa to be transferred to another department, but she refuses to leave the creature alone. Russian agents are after the creature also.

On the night of the creature's escape, Elisa and Zelda break into the laboratory and rescue him. They take him to Giles' apartment, where he is able to recuperate and learn about human culture. Elisa and the creature develop a deep and passionate relationship, despite the challenges they face due to their different backgrounds and species.

Strickland discovers that the creature is missing and orders a manhunt for Elisa and her accomplices. He captures Elisa and threatens to kill her unless she tells him where the creature is hiding. Elisa refuses to betray her friend, and Strickland is forced to release her.

 The film explores the themes of otherness and belonging. Elisa is an outsider in her own world, both because of her muteness and her outsider status. The creature is also an outsider, a being from another world who is captured and held captive by humans. The film suggests that true connection and love can transcend these differences. Zelda is an African American woman in a very racist environment. People assume Elisa is mute because she is stupid.

 At the heart of the film is a story of love and acceptance. Elisa's love for the creature is unconditional, despite his physical differences from humans. The film suggests that love can be found in the most unexpected places, and that it can bring people together despite their differences. The real passion between Elisa and the creature is in stark contrast to the sex between the colonel and his wife.

The film also celebrates resilience and the power of the human spirit. Elisa and her friends face numerous challenges throughout the film, but they never give up hope and they always find a way to overcome their obstacles. The film suggests that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and courage to pursue our 

The Shape of Water was widely praised by critics, who lauded its acting, screenplay, direction, visuals, production design, cinematography, and musical score. The American Film Institute selected it as one of the top ten films of 2017. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for del Toro. It was also nominated for four Golden Globe Awards and seven BAFTA Awards.

I totally enjoyed The Shape of Water. Sally Hawkins is marvelous.  

The film is rated R 

Mel u

Night Train to Munich- A 1940 British Movie Directed by Carol Reed - Starring Margaret Lockwood and Rex Harrison- 1 Hour 35 Minutes

 Night Train to Munich (1940) is a British thriller film directed by Carol Reed and starring Margaret Lockwood and Rex Harrison. Written by Sidney Gilliat and Frank Launder, based on the 1939 short story Report on a Fugitive by Gordon Wellesley, the film is about an inventor and his daughter who are kidnapped by the Gestapo after the Nazis march into Prague in the prelude to the Second World War. A British secret service agent follows them, disguised as a senior German army officer pretending to woo the daughter over to the Nazi cause.

The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $2 million at the box office. It was praised for its suspenseful plot, its sharp dialogue, and its performances, particularly from Lockwood and Harrison. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Picture and Best Actress for Lockwood.

Night Train to Munich is considered to be one of the best British films of the 1940s, and it is often cited as a precursor to the spy films of the Cold War era. The film is a suspenseful and thrilling ride that captures the atmosphere of fear and paranoia that prevailed in Europe during the early days of World War I

Here are some of the things that make Night Train to Munich so special:

Its suspenseful plot: The film is a fast-paced and suspenseful thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Its sharp dialogue: The film's dialogue is witty and intelligent, and it adds to the overall suspense and excitement.

Its performances: The film features strong performances from its lead actors, particularly Margaret Lockwood and Rex Harrison.

Its atmospheric setting: The film's setting in Prague and Vienna during the early days of World War II creates a sense of foreboding and danger.

Winter Light - A 1963 Movie Directed by Ingmar Bergman- 81 Minutes

 Available on YouTube 

I found Roger Ebert's remarks on Winter Light very illuminating 

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-winter-light-1962

Winter Light is the fourth film directed by Ingmar Bergman upon which I have posted. Prior to this I watched The Seventh Seal, Persona and Wild Strawberries.

I would welcome suggestions as to additional of Bergman's films I should seek out.

Like Wild Strawberries, a central character in Winter Light is a widower in his mid- seventies, as am I.  Of course this focuses my response to the film.

Winter Light (Nattvardsgästerna) is a 1963 Swedish black-and-white drama film written and directed by Ingmar Bergman and starring Gunnar Björnstrand, Ingrid Thulin, and Max von Sydow. It follows Tomas Ericsson (Björnstrand), a pastor in a small fishing village in northern Sweden, as he grapples with his faith in the face of personal tragedy and the existential dread of his parishioners. 

The film is considered to be one of Bergman's most profound and personal works, and it has been praised for its stark realism, its exploration of religious faith, and its performances.

Bergman himself said that Winter Light was "a film about God and the silence of God," and it is clear that the film is deeply concerned with the question of faith in a world that seems increasingly devoid of meaning. Tomas's struggle to reconcile his own doubts with the needs of his parishioners is at the heart of the film, and it is a struggle that resonates with many viewers.

Winter Light is a challenging and demanding film, but it is also a rewarding one. It is a film that asks difficult questions about the nature of faith and the meaning of life, and it does not provide easy answers. But it is a film that is ultimately hopeful, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is still room for love and compassion.

Here are some of the themes explored in Winter Light:

Faith and doubt. Tomas's struggle to reconcile his own doubts with the needs of his parishioners is at the heart of the film.

The meaning of life. The film explores the question of what it means to live a meaningful life in a world that seems increasingly devoid of meaning.

Love and compassion. Despite the bleakness of its setting, Winter Light is a film that is ultimately hopeful, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is still room for love and faith.

Osaka Elegy (浪華悲歌, Naniwa Erejii) is a 1936 Japanese drama film directed by Kenji Mizoguchi - 1 hour 11 Minutes

 Available on YouTube 

Osaka Elegy (浪華悲歌, Naniwa erejī) is a 1936 Japanese drama film directed by Kenji Mizoguchi. It stars Isuzu Yamada as Ayako Murai, a switchboard operator who becomes the mistress of her boss, Mr. Asai, in order to support her family. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it established Mizoguchi as a major filmmaker.

 Ayako is switchboard operator who lives with her father, a scoundrel who has embezzled money from his company. To save her father from going to prison, Ayako becomes the mistress of her boss, Mr. Asai. She also sends money to her brother, Hiroshi, to paying his tuition.

Ayako's life becomes increasingly difficult as she tries to balance her responsibilities to her family with her own desires. She is constantly worried about her father, who is always getting into trouble. She is also in love with a man named Nishimura, but she knows that she can never marry him because she is a mistress.

Osaka Elegy is a powerful and moving film about the sacrifices that women make for their families. It is a film that is still relevant today, as women continue to struggle to balance their work and family lives.

As a history lesson it gives us a glimpse into life in Japan in the 1930s

"Kenji Mizoguchi (溝口 健二, Mizoguchi Kenji, 16 May 1898 – 24 August 1956) was a Japanese filmmaker who directed roughly one hundred films during his career between 1923 and 1956. His most acclaimed works include The Story of the Last Chrysanthemums (1939), The Life of Oharu (1952), Ugetsu (1953), and Sansho the Bailiff (1954), with the latter three all being awarded at the Venice International Film Festival. A recurring theme of his films was the oppression of women in historical and contemporary Japan." From Bard

I hope to post upon at least the four films mentioned above.

The Love Parade- A 1929 Musical Comedy Directed by Ernst Lubitsch- Starring Maurice Chevalier- 1 Hour 40 Minutes

 Available on YouTube 

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/

Ernst lubitsch 

Born: January 29, 1892, Berlin, Germany - produces 65 silent films before moving to America

1922 Moves to Hollywood- Warner Pictures Signed him to a three year six picture contract

Died: November 30, 1947, Los Angeles, California, United 

Ernst lubitsch Directed two of my all time favourite films, Ninotchka and To Be or Not to Be 

The Love Parade is the eighth movie directed by Ernst Lubitsch so far featured on The Reading Life.  

The film was Lubitsch's first "talkie" and tells the story of a playboy count (Chevalier) who becomes prince consort to the queen of Sylvania (MacDonald). The count, who is used to being a free spirit, finds it difficult to adjust to his new role as a husband and figurehead. The queen, who is bored with her life, is attracted to the count's charm and independence.

The film is notable for its sophisticated humor, its lavish musical numbers, and its performances by Chevalier and MacDonald. It was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish MacDonald as a major star.

The Love Parade was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Chevalier. It won the award for Best Cinematography.

The film was a major influence on later musical comedies, and it is considered a classic early talkie.  The dialogue is delightful and the sets are marvelous 

Wild Strawberries- A 1957 Movie Directed by Ingmar Bergman- 1957 -1 hour 34 minutes

 Available on YouTube 

Wild Strawberries is the third film directed by Ingmar Bergman I have posted upon.  My prior films are Persona and The Seventh Seal.

The film stars Victor Sjöström as Professor Isak Borg, an elderly and retired doctor who travels from Stockholm to Lund to receive an honorary degree from his alma mater. Along the way, he is accompanied by his pregnant and unhappy daughter-in-law, Marianne (Ingrid Thulin).

During the journey, Borg encounters a series of hitchhikers, each of whom triggers memories and reflections from his past. These encounters force Borg to confront his own mortality and to come to terms with his regrets and failures.

Wild Strawberries is a deeply personal and moving film that explores themes of aging, death, love, and redemption. It is considered to be one of Bergman's greatest masterpieces and one of the greatest films ever made.

The film's title refers to a wild strawberry patch that Borg visits during his journey. This patch is a place of great personal significance to Borg, as it is associated with happy memories of his childhood. The wild strawberries themselves represent the simple pleasures of life and the importance of cherishing the present moment. 

Wild Strawberries was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It won the Golden Bear for Best Film at the 8th Berlin International Film Festival and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. The film has been praised for its powerful performances, Bergman's thoughtful screenplay, and Gunnar Fischer's beautiful cinematography.

Wild Strawberries is a timeless film that continues to resonate with audiences today. It is a film that reminds us to appreciate the simple things in life and to make the most of the time we have.

People on Sunday (Menschen am Sonntag) is a 1930 German Silent Film

 People on Sunday (German: Menschen am Sonntag) is a 1930 German silent drama film directed by Robert Siodmak and Edgar G. Ulmer from a screenplay by Robert and Curt Siodmak. The film follows a group of residents of Berlin on a summer's day during the interwar period.

Hailed as a work of genius, it is a pivotal film in the development of German cinema and Hollywood. The film features the talents of Eugen Schüfftan (cinematography), Billy Wilder (story) and Fred Zinnemann (cinematography assistant).

This lightly scripted, loosely observational work  became a surprise hit. People on Sunday is notable for its portrayal of daily life in Berlin before Adolf Hitler became Chancellor and as an early work by writer/director Billy Wilder before he moved to the United States to escape from Hitler's Germany. The film is the directorial debut of the Siodmak Brothers. The film was co-produced by Moriz Seeler, founder of the Filmstudio 1929 production company and Seymour Nebenzal, cousin to the Siodmaks, whose father Heinrich put up the money. The film began a 30-year collaborative friendship between Nebenzal and Wilder.

The film is subtitled "a film without actors" and was filmed on Sundays in the summer of 1929. The actors were amateurs whose day jobs were those that they portrayed in the film—the opening titles inform the audience that these actors have all returned to their normal jobs by the time of the film's release in February 1930. They were part of a collective of young Berliners who wrote and produced the film on a shoestring. This lightly scripted, loosely observational work of New Objectivity became a surprise hit.

Mel u

The Blue Angel - (Der blaue Engel) is a 1930 German directed by Joseph von Sternberg - Starring Marlana Dietrich -1 Hour 40 minutes

Available on YouTube with English Captions 

Films by German directors are an essential part of post World War One German Culture. From the groundbreaking silent classics of the Weimer 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.

(YOUTUBE has numerous German films online, often with English Captions) 

 German Literature Month is hosted by Lizzy’s Literary Life

https://lizzysiddal2.wordpress.com/2023/09/22/announcing-german-literature-month-xiii/

The Blue Angel (German: Der blaue Engel) is a 1930 German musical comedy-drama film directed by Josef von Sternberg and starring Marlene Dietrich, Emil Jannings, and Kurt Gerron. Written by Carl Zuckmayer, Karl Vollmöller, and Robert Liebmann, with uncredited contributions by Sternberg, it is based on Heinrich Mann's 1905 novel Professor Unrat (Professor Filth) and set in an unspecified northern German port city. The Blue Angel presents the tragic transformation of a respectable professor into a cabaret clown and his descent into madness. The film was the first feature-length German sound film and brought Dietrich international fame.



The film tells the story of Immanuel Rath (Emil Jannings), a stern and uptight professor who teaches at a prestigious German school. When he discovers that some of his students are frequenting a local cabaret called The Blue Angel, he decides to investigate. At the Blue Angel, Rath is mesmerized by Lola Lola (Marlene Dietrich), a beautiful and seductive cabaret singer. He becomes obsessed with her and begins to neglect his teaching duties.


Rath's obsession with Lola Lola leads to his downfall. He resigns from his job, marries Lola Lola, and joins her cabaret act. However, Lola Lola soon grows tired of Rath and begins to cheat on him. Rath becomes increasingly humiliated and eventually descends into madness. He is eventually found dead in a gutter, having drunk himself to death.



The Blue Angel is a classic film that has been praised for its groundbreaking use of sound, its innovative cinematography, and its powerful performances. Dietrich's performance as Lola Lola is particularly iconic, and she is credited with creating the archetype of the femme fatale.


The film is also significant for its exploration of themes such as obsession, morality, and the dark side of human nature. It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked desire and the consequences of making bad choices.




The Blue Angel is considered to be one of the most important films of the German Expressionist movement. It has been influential on countless filmmakers, including Alfred Hitchcock, Billy Wilder, and Rainer Werner Fassbinder. The film is also a popular choice for film studies courses and is often shown in retrospectives of German cinema.

1930 - Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film (nominated)
1931 - New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Foreign Film (won)

The Blue Angel made Marlene Dietrich an international star. Her performance as Lola Lola was so captivating that she was quickly offered Hollywood contracts. She went on to become one of the most popular actresses of the 1930s and 1940s.


Overall, The Blue Angel is a landmark film that has had a lasting impact on cinema. It is a must-see for any fan of classic films or German Expressionism.