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Tabu is a 1931 film directed by F.W. Murnau, who revolutionized cinematic expression by using the camera to interpret a character's emotional state.12

The film was shot in the South Seas and was intended as a documentary of Polynesian life. However, Murnau incorporated a fictionalized love story into the narrative. While credited as codirector, Robert Flaherty withdrew from the production early on, leaving the film largely as Murnau's vision.1

Tabu is considered one of Murnau's masterpieces and was his greatest popular success. Tragically, Murnau died in an auto accident just a week before the film's premiere.1

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