Metropolis (1927) Review in 2025
Metropolis is a 1927 German science fiction film directed by Fritz Lang, set in a futuristic city where the ruling class lives in luxury while the working class toils in poverty. The film follows the story of Freder, the son of the city's ruler, as he discovers the truth about the city's oppressive regime and falls in love with Maria, a woman who represents hope and freedom.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
No, due to mature themes and some violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and classic cinema. It's a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that explores themes of class struggle, oppression, and the dangers of unchecked technological advancement.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film's plot revolves around the struggle between the ruling class and the working class, with Freder, the son of the city's ruler, discovering the truth about the city's oppressive regime and joining the workers in their fight for freedom. Along the way, he falls in love with Maria, a woman who represents hope and freedom, and together they try to bring about change to the city.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging and thought-provoking, exploring themes of class struggle, oppression, and the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. The plot is well-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping the viewer engaged until the very end.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with the entire cast delivering strong performances. Brigitte Helm is particularly impressive as Maria, bringing a sense of vulnerability and determination to the role.
characters9.20/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Freder and Maria being particularly well-portrayed. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from the actors playing the roles of Rotwang and the Machine Man.
direction9.50/10
Fritz Lang's direction is masterful, using a combination of innovative special effects and clever camera work to bring the futuristic city to life. The pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of action, drama, and suspense.
cinematography9.80/10
The cinematography is stunning, with Lang using a range of techniques to create a visually striking and immersive experience. The use of shadows, lighting, and composition is particularly impressive, adding depth and texture to the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's themes of class struggle and oppression are timeless and thought-provoking. The cinematography and special effects are stunning, and the acting is superb. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of action, drama, and suspense.
Cons
The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some of the special effects may seem dated by modern standards. Additionally, the film's themes of oppression and class struggle may be disturbing for some viewers.
Notable Quotes
"The brain is the seat of all human knowledge."
"The heart is the seat of all human emotions."
"The mediator between the hand and the brain is the heart."
