The Hidden Masterpiece.
Any self-respecting science fiction fan is at least aware of the classic 1927 film, ‘Metropolis’. Fritz Lang’s groundbreaking movie is still enjoyed by thousands of people today and many continue to marvel at the special effects which were so advanced for its time.
What a lot of people might not be aware of is that Mr Lang went on to make another sci-fi film two years later. This one, ‘Frau im Mond’ (‘Woman in the Moon’) has been largely overlooked since its release.
In my opinion, ‘Frau im Mond’ can sit quite happily right up there next to ‘Metropolis’. However, the only real similarities to its predecessor are the expressionist style acting and photography. The basic story of the film (without spoiling anything) is a journey to the moon. Around this there are several other key elements that I will not mention…
The launch of the actual rocket is an extremely impressive affair which really manages to rack up the tension and excitement. To increase the feeling of suspense, Lang used a countdown from ten to zero. Unbelievably, it was this film which caused NASA to adopt the same technique for real launches. In one scene, which takes place on the rocket, we are treated to an experience of zero gravity; how Fritz Lang managed to achieve this so convincingly back in 1929 is all a bit of a mystery.
If you enjoy seeing the ‘daddies’ of science fiction movies then you really should look out for this one. ‘Frau im Mond’ is a wonderful and highly imaginative film which is still visually impressive - even by today’s standards.
So onto news about the move, as most of you know it was last weekend that we moved across the city, and I cannot even begin to tell you what a disaster it truly was. Other then the massive storm when we were loading the truck, half of my things being forgotten at the old house, and the loss of just about all the stainless steel fasteners for my flat pack furniture, it was lovely! Oh well, the point is that it is done now, Jake and Dana I can’t begin to thank you enough for all the support.
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