Metropolis

Metropolis
November 1, 2004
>Movie Response

The silent film Metropolis is a really interesting black and white film that demonstrates the style of science fiction during 1927. It is directed by Fritz Lang, who is able to capture the essence of a futuristic world and portray the emotions and split situation of the working class and aristocrats both of whom inhabit the city without vocal sounds, or color. Science fiction today typically relies on the help of technological sound and visual effects, with animation and green screens. Lang is able to use orchestral music and the conduction of the music fits the expressions of the characters’ faces or their actions throughout the film.

This dramatic and very effective music is used to set the mood of each scene, slow, low octave horns are used while the workers march, in unison, like robots into elevators. More upbeat and flute-like music is used to capture the carelessness of the aristocratic people who run around freely.

One of these aristocrats, the son of the leader of the city, is in search for a female entertainer. He finds a playmate, but has a jaw dropping reaction to the caretaker of the children. She keeps yelling to him “these are your Brothers!”

The meaning of this line shows that he has not been able to accept that he is the same being as the workers. He realizes his fortune and in reaction decides to switch places with a worker, removing himself from his title and ‘sticks his hands in the dirt’. The chief of this great city, an authoritative ruler, shows that he is angered and disturbed, but also shows signs of understanding in reaction to his son’s decision to merge with the working class.

The working class with its obligations to the city, has a unity that allows them to function even through difficult situations and portrays them as the backbone to the city of Metropolis. Metropolis is nothing without its workers.

Lang is able to create a realistic version of this futuristic city, and through the acting and music selections, he is able to show the idea of science fiction while lacking (what would be) helpful technological features (such as color, audio lines, or even computer animation).