Metropolis
A review by Jacalyn C. Spoon
Metropolis, a 95 minute black and white silent film, directed by Fritz Lang, originally a feature film produced by UFA in 1925, was re-released on VHS by Goodtimes Home Video Corp. New York, NY in 1985. The story revolves around the distinct class division between the dehumanized laborers who work and live underground and the controlling class who live in the above ground paradise often oblivious of the workers and their struggle. While suitable for all ages, a third grade reading level is recommended. As this is silent film as it uses the occasional paragraph of descriptive information common to this genre. It may be possible to understand the message without any reading ability but may become frustrating. This film may not be entertaining for the younger audience, as the mature theme may not be appreciated. Metropolis is credited by many as the first science fiction film and the precursor to every futuristic film ever made. Metropolis is recommended viewing for students of film, science fiction history, as well as those simply interested in an entertaining story. However, this reproduction of Metropolis is missing its music soundtrack, is poorly centered and blurry. These distractions combined with the twenty-four minutes of blank tape which precede the movie, remove the viewer from experiencing the originally intended production. This title in VHS format is a must have for retrospective collection development and any history of film series but, another source for Metropolis should be secured. In my opinion, preservation of the complete film expedience is preferable.
Ms. Spoon received her Bachelors of Arts from Ithaca College while majoring in Anthropology. She combined her studies with a minor in Art History. Her additional work in preservation studies has led to an interest in bringing classic films to today’s audience. She is currently pursuing her Master degree in library science at the State University of New York, University at Buffalo. Ms. Spoon is currently employed as a Cataloging Specialist at the Ithaca College library where she has worked since 1986.
Pommer, E. (Producer), & Lang, F. (Director). (1985). Metropolis [Film]. (Available from Goodtimes Home Video, Corp. 401 5th Ave. NewYork, NY10016) (Original produced 1925, UFA).