M (1931)

[Dementeleus]

Discuss.

[Gazz]

It's said that life imitates art, so it's a curious thing to watch M with knowledge of certain serial killers that have followed in the decades since. As a result Fritz Lang's masterpiece plays like Zodiac 0.5 during it's first act, with the publication the murderer's letters sent to the press and how both the media and police force play off each other in pursuit of the killer (albiet with different results).Everyone seems to be out to save their own reputation with the sudden appearance of a child murderer and this is communicated through a fantastically edited sequence that continuously intercuts a mob meeting with a policeman's dinner. Here their reasons are laid bare. The police, out to rescue their failing public image, press down harder on the mob in pursuit of the killer and the mob reacts by joining the chase, reasoning that if the killer is found their criminal lives would be made easier once more. This culminates in a fantastic speech from the killer, delivered note perfect from Peter Lorre. It's a great scene that leaves one a long time thinking of the film's central moral conundrum.On the technical side of things there is an incredibly effective use of sound for a film of this era, particularly present when the killer, Hans Becket, pursues a young girl. He is not seen but present through his hypnotic whistling of 'In the Hall of the Mountain King', which grows louder with each passing second. Couple that with some imaginative camera work of Hans reflected in a mirror framed with knives, whilst in conflict on whether to follow his disgusting urges. It's a scene that's damn near close to perfection in a film full to the brim with near perfect scenes.5/5

[luna]

a very interesting film elevates itself to absolute genius in trial by beggars. should have ended with their hands up, fade to black, 'in the name of the law'. the final line about mothers watching their children was unnecessary. ah well, great film.

 

A-

[Kvikk Lunsj]

One of all time favorite films. Lang is amazing director!

10/10

Edited September 25, 2013 by Dexter of Suburbia

[Jake Gittes]

I actually thought it really dragged in the middle with the mob and the police, but the first and the last 30 minutes were brilliant. I need to give it a second watch sometime.

[CaptainJackSparrow]

I actually thought it really dragged in the middle with the mob and the police, but the first and the last 30 minutes were brilliant. I need to give it a second watch sometime.

That's exactly what I thought also! !!

[JohnnyGossamer]

One of the more seminal films yet made and arguably my favorite of the decade in which it released. Peter Lorre's performance has never left me. Lang's measured, brilliant pacing and storytelling too. In parts, police procedural, serial killer epic, film noir, psychological study and societal study. Awesome, awesome, awesome movie.

Edited September 5, 2014 by JohnnyGossamer

[bartonfink]

Perfect film. 

Edited September 5, 2014 by bartonfink