German Expressionist Film: A Primer

Expressionism, as an art movement, began several years before the film industry in Germany took off. The German Expressionist movement encapsulated a wide range of art forms, including theater, music and painting, and is characterized by heavy symbolism and a departure from realism.

German Expressionism in film only lasted for about a decade, between the world wars. The first films to be considered Expressionist were produced just prior to 1920. By the late 20's the style had mostly been replaced in Europe by the films being produced in Hollywood.

German Expressionism: Style

The style of German Expressionist film can be best described in terms of its cinematography. Unlike the more realistic films that preceded and followed it, German Expressionism is identified by the immense amount of cinematic exaggeration. The lighting is often harsh in these films, with clear boundaries between shadow and light.

The majority of Expressionist films were silent, and used an exaggerated acting style to convey meanings. This, coupled with the characteristic symbolism of the set designs and plot, often lent Expressionist films a dream-like quality.

The main focus of Expressionist films wasn't on telling a straight-forward story, but rather on evoking a particular feeling from the audience. These films were much more character-driven (often focusing on a morally gray, or even evil, protagonist) than plot driven, and concentrated on themes rather than action.

German Expressionism: Influences

Though German Expressionism accounted for a very brief time in film history, it was remarkably influential. The films we enjoy even today would likely be much different if not for this film style. German Expressionism was a direct influence on the style of Film Noir, in addition to being a huge influence on classic and modern horror films. The use of shadow and light, and the inclusion of dream-like qualities can be seen both in classic Noir and contemporary horror films.

Directors such as Tim Burton and Alfred Hitchcock have cited Expressionism as a primary influence on their individual styles.

Essential German Expressionist Films:

Nosferatu- (1922, F.W. Murnau) Nosferatu is one of the more iconic German Expressionist films, and easily stands as one of the greatest vampire films ever made. This silent horror film, starring Max Schreck as the gruesome Count Orlok, is an Expressionist retelling of Dracula.

M - (1931, Fritz Lang) M was among the last of the true German Expressionist films, and one of the few that are not silent. M stars Peter Lorre as a child-murderer in Berlin.

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari - (1919, Robert Weine) The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is considered by many to be the quintessential example of German Expressionism. This silent horror film about a sleepwalking murderer is known for its set design and fantastical plot.

Schatten - (1923, Arthur Robison) In Schatten, the shadows for which Expressionism is widely known take center stage in the form of a morality play that is warned to foretell the future.

Metropolis -- (1927, Fritz Lang) Metropolis takes the importance of Expressionist set design to a new level. This silent science-fiction film is set in a dystopian urban environment. The look of Metropolis has been copied in countless other films.

Sources:

German Expressionism. GreenCine.