Metropolis
Synopsis
Sometime in the future, the city of Metropolis is home to a Utopian society where its wealthy residents live a carefree life. One of those is Freder Fredersen. One day, he spots a beautiful woman with a group of children, she and the children quickly disappear. Trying to follow her, he is horrified to find an underground world of workers who apparently run the machinery that keeps the Utopian world above ground functioning. One of the few people above ground who knows about the world below is Freder's father, John Fredersen, who is the founder and master of Metropolis. Freder learns that the woman is called Maria, who espouses the need to join the "hands" - the workers - to the "head" - those in power above - by a mediator who will act as the "heart". Freder wants to help the plight of the workers in their struggle for a better life. But when John learns of what Maria is advocating and that Freder has joined their cause, with the assistance of an old colleague. an inventor called Rotwang, who turns out to be But their nemesis goes to works towards quashing a proposed uprising, with Maria at the centre of their plan. John, unaware that Rotwang has his own agenda., makes plans that include shutting down the machines, with the prospect of unleashing total anarchy both above and below ground.
Critical Acclaim
The 1927 release of *Metropolis* marked a pivotal moment in cinema, though its initial reception was mixed. Critics were divided, with some praising its groundbreaking visual effects and others criticizing its narrative and pacing. The film's ambitious scale and innovative special effects, such as the iconic Maschinenmensch (robot), captured the imagination of audiences, yet its complex themes and storyline were met with skepticism by some reviewers of the time. Despite this, *Metropolis* was recognized as a technical marvel, even if its artistic and thematic intentions were not fully appreciated by all at the outset.
In subsequent decades, critical appraisal of *Metropolis* underwent a significant transformation. Modern critics have lauded Fritz Lang’s direction and Thea von Harbou’s screenplay, appreciating the film as a visionary work that was ahead of its time. Roger Ebert included *Metropolis* in his Great Movies series, noting its pioneering influence on science fiction cinema and its "staggering" visuals. As of today, the film holds a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its enduring significance and the critical consensus that has evolved in its favor. The film's exploration of class struggle and its cautionary tale of unchecked technological advancement resonate profoundly with contemporary audiences.
The lasting impact and legacy of *Metropolis* are indisputable. It has influenced countless filmmakers, including Ridley Scott and George Lucas, and has been referenced in a myriad of films, television shows, and music videos. The film's themes and visual style have cemented its place as a cornerstone of science fiction cinema. *Metropolis* was the first film to be added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, underscoring its cultural and historical importance. Its restoration in the 21st century, incorporating lost footage, captivated new audiences and reinforced its status as a timeless masterpiece.
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