MovieChat Forums > Der letzte Mann (1925) Discussion > Explain Why This Is 'Great'

Explain Why This Is 'Great'


I saw this film hoping to change my mind on 1920's German films, but I was disappointed. This film was not a good film at all. My main complaint is that the story dragged like crazy and therefore was extremely boring. I also didn't feel for the character at all because being demoted and having your daughter move away isn't the saddest thing to ever happen to someone. With that being said, I would like to know why you think this film is great.

"Gonna be a beautiful town, Sweetwater"- Harmonica

reply

Well, there's a lot, actually:

- The compostion of the pictures, for once. The contrasts between light and shadows. And the way the buildings tower. All this as a parallell to the mental state of the charachters. This is essential.

- The opening sequence of the film is great. This is one of the first films with the use of a moving camera. Might not be so revolutionary today, but taking the time in consideration, this is actually big.

- No, his daughter moving away is not the saddest thing happening to him. He is happy for her. What you should understand for the storyline, though, is his loss of position. In Germany in those days, wearing an uniform, was a symbol of high status. Wearing one ment you were a big man! This is a fact. And that is the reason he is so highly regarded, respected and popular in the neighbourhood. Loosing his position at work made him a nobody in society. So, yes, this was a big loss. From a modern perspective, it might seem odd, but from the time and place, this would be a fall from grace for a working-class man. That's why his wife is so schocked and angry when she finds out. They've lost their position.

- Besides, the acting is great. It has to be well-made if you can make a whole film without dialogue.

**********
They blew up Congress!!! HAHAHA!

reply

. I also didn't feel for the character at all because being demoted and having your daughter move away isn't the saddest thing to ever happen to someone.


What? First, it doesn't have to be the saddest thing. Secondly, it is quite possibly for someone to feel depressed when one of their children move away.

reply