Doctor Caligari and German Expressionism

Identify three stylistic features of the scene that make this an example of “German Expressionism.” Explain how each stylistic feature functions to create a consistent mood and atmosphere throughout the scene. Write between 500 and 600 words.

Cabinet of Doctor Caligari: 43.47-46.54 [Please ignore the soundtrack on the version linked to on Youtube below. The original film was screened without recorded sound]

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German expressionism in filmmaking was a concept used by filmmakers in Germany between 1910-1931 to express their inner turmoil, fears, and vulnerability following the ban on foreign films after the WW1. German expressionism represents a style that incorporates high contrasts of dark and light to bring out a nightmarish set, distorted sets, deep shadows, high angles, and extreme camera tilting. German expressionism is evident in the film Cabinet of Doctor Caligari (1920), a silent film horror film. The director, Robert Wiene, applies several tenets of the concept, such as surreal sets, dark shadows, and distortion, to paint a picture of the time based on the plight faced by the two WW1 soldiers and their distrust of authoritarianism. The film is about an insane hypnotist who uses a somnambulist to commit murder (warsLIVE. (2015).

637 Words