The Cabinet of Dr Caligari. The Grandfather of both expressionism and horror. Robert Wiene did an excellent job, moulding this film and he ended up creating one of the most memorable and influential films for the horror genre. We have Conrad Veidt, Werner Krauss and Friedrich Feher in the main roles of Ceasare, Dr Caligari and Francis respectively. Carl Mayer and Hans Janowitz also get mentioned for superb story that would even hold up in todays standard, let alone 1920.
The Cabinet of Dr Caligari focuses on Francis and his friend Alan who go to the fair and come across Dr Caligari and his somnambulist, who also has deadly predictions for all who are there. What ensues leaves Francis fearful for his life and him trying to get back at Caligari and his Somnambulist.
1920 horror films have a lot more going for them than 2014 horror films. The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, does everything right from a horror stand point, by pretty much creating the genre. There were some other, older films that could also be called horror but Caligari was the first film to get it right and to have a wide spread audience that would influence directors for generations. Aesthetically following the war The Cabinet of Dr Caligari has make shift sets, with everything painted on, including shadows and stairs as it was both easier and cheaper to do. This does give it a very unique look, making everything seem creepy and crooked.
From a narrative stand point, this film was also a ground breaker with it being one of the first cases of a twist in a film. With a 96 year old film i don’t believe a spoiler alert should be required , nor do i plan to go in-depth into the story but as a just incase. SPOILER ALERT. The twist which sees francis appearing to be crazy is simply brilliant. Works well and is unexpected. See no spoiler
Give it a watch. If anything you can see a Tim Burton film before Tim Burton was alive
Simons Films 