Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Which German films are major examples of Expressionist cinema?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Expressionism
The Scream, tempera and casein on cardboard by Edvard Munch, 1893; in the National Museum, Oslo.
German Expressionist cinema is defined by its use of distorted sets, dramatic shadows, and stylized acting to convey the subjective mental states of characters or explore themes of social collapse and human duality.123
The following films are considered major examples of this movement:
- The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920): Directed by Robert Wiene, this film is widely regarded as the first great work of the genre. Its use of surrealistic production design, misshapen buildings, and high-contrast lighting established the stylistic model for the movement.124
- The Golem: How He Came into the World (1920): Directed by Paul Wegener, this film utilized the movement's characteristic visual intensity.12
- Nosferatu (1922): Directed by F.W. Murnau, this iconic work further developed the movement's morbid and atmospheric aesthetic.124
- Metropolis (1927): Directed by Fritz Lang, this film is a landmark of the era, exploring themes of social collapse and the complexities of human nature.124
These films significantly influenced later cinematic styles, most notably the American film noir genre.24