Metropolis, a 1927 German expressionist film directed by Fritz Lang, is a cinematic masterpiece that has influenced science fiction and dystopian films for decades. The film is set in a futuristic city-state, where the wealthy elite live in luxury above ground while the working-class toil in the depths of the city. Metropolis is a story of class struggle, power, and the consequences of unchecked technological progress.
Metropolis is not just a story of a dystopian future, but it is also a powerful allegory that explores the themes of religion, politics, and social justice. The film’s use of symbolism and motifs such as the Tower of Babel, the Seven Deadly Sins, and the Heart Machine, have been the subject of much analysis and interpretation. The film’s religious symbolism and messiah allegory were common for high budget films during the silent era, as studios had to appeal to mainstream audiences, however, it’s the film’s progressive politics that have drawn in viewers decades later.
Historical Context of Metropolis
Weimar Republic Influence
Metropolis was made during the Weimar Republic period in Germany, a time of political and social turmoil. The country was still reeling from the aftermath of World War I, and the Treaty of Versailles had imposed significant economic and territorial restrictions on Germany. The Weimar Republic was marked by political instability, economic hardship, and social unrest, as well as a flourishing of art, literature, and culture. These conditions are reflected in Metropolis, which explores themes of class struggle, social inequality, and political oppression.
Industrial Revolution Reflections
Metropolis was also made during the height of the Industrial Revolution, a period of rapid technological advancements and social change. The film depicts a futuristic city where machines and technology have replaced human labor, leading to a stark divide between the wealthy elite who control the machines and the working-class who are oppressed by them. This reflects the anxieties of the time, as people grappled with the consequences of industrialization and the rise of capitalism.
Main Allegory of Metropolis
Metropolis, a 1927 science fiction film directed by Fritz Lang, is a masterpiece of German expressionism. The film’s main allegory is a commentary on the class struggle between the rich and the poor, and the consequences of technological advancement on society. Lang uses various symbols and motifs to convey his message.
Class Struggle
The film portrays a dystopian society where the wealthy live in luxury in the high-rise buildings of Metropolis, while the working-class toil underground to keep the city running. The stark contrast between the two classes highlights the issue of class struggle. Lang uses the character of Freder, the son of the city’s ruler, to bridge the gap between the two classes and bring about a resolution.
Machine Man Symbolism
Another significant allegory in the film is the symbolism of the Machine Man. The Machine Man is a robot created by the mad scientist Rotwang, who is a representation of the dehumanizing effects of technology. The Machine Man is a metaphor for the working-class, who are seen as mere cogs in the machinery of society. The robot’s creation is a reminder of the dangers of unchecked technological advancement.
Babel Tower Motif
The Tower of Babel, a story from the Bible about a giant tower that reached into the heavens, is a recurring motif in the film. The tower is a symbol of man’s hubris and the consequences of overreaching. The city of Metropolis is a modern Tower of Babel, with its towering skyscrapers and sprawling infrastructure. The motif is a warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power.
Character Analysis and Symbolism
Maria as a Messianic Figure
In the film, Maria is portrayed as a Christ-like figure who preaches about the importance of unity and compassion. She is the voice of the oppressed working class and serves as their savior. Her character is symbolic of hope, faith, and altruism. Maria’s role in the story is crucial as she brings together the two opposing classes, the working class and the ruling class, through her message of love and peace.
Joh Fredersen’s Autocratic Rule
Joh Fredersen is the ruler of Metropolis and is portrayed as an autocratic leader who is obsessed with power and control. He is symbolic of the ruling class who exploit the working class for their own gain. Joh Fredersen’s character is a representation of the oppressive nature of capitalism and its impact on the working class. His character serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the need for balance in society.
Rotwang’s Scientific Hubris
Rotwang is a mad scientist who creates the robot that is meant to replace Maria. He is symbolic of the dangers of scientific hubris and the consequences of playing God. Rotwang’s character serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked scientific progress and the need for ethical considerations in scientific research. His character is a representation of the dark side of progress and its impact on society.
Visual Imagery and Allegorical Elements
Expressionist Cinematography
Metropolis is a film that showcases the Expressionist style of cinematography. This style is characterized by the use of light and shadow to create a dramatic and often surreal atmosphere. The film’s use of Expressionist cinematography is particularly evident in the scenes where the workers are shown toiling away in the underground city. The use of stark shadows and exaggerated camera angles creates a sense of claustrophobia and oppression, which serves to highlight the film’s allegorical themes.
Architectural Symbolism
The city of Metropolis is a marvel of architectural design, with towering skyscrapers and intricate underground tunnels. The film’s use of architectural symbolism is particularly evident in the scenes where the workers and the ruling class are shown inhabiting different parts of the city. The workers are relegated to the underground tunnels, which are dark, cramped, and oppressive. In contrast, the ruling class lives in luxurious high-rise apartments, which are bathed in light and filled with modern conveniences. This contrast serves to highlight the film’s allegorical themes of class struggle and social inequality.
Religious and Mythological References
Metropolis contains numerous references to religious and mythological themes. The most prominent of these is the Tower of Babel, which is referenced throughout the film. The Tower of Babel is a biblical story about a giant tower that was built by exploited laborers. The tower was intended to reach the heavens, but it ultimately failed, and the workers were punished for their hubris. The Tower of Babel serves as an allegory for the dangers of unchecked technological progress and the importance of social cohesion. Other religious and mythological references in the film include the character of Maria, who is portrayed as a Christ-like figure, and the use of the seven deadly sins as a thematic motif.
Influence on Future Media
Science Fiction Genre Evolution
Metropolis has had a significant impact on the science fiction genre, influencing the evolution of futuristic dystopian narratives in films and other media. The film’s depiction of a highly stratified society, with the wealthy living in luxury while the working class toils away in darkness, has become a recurring theme in science fiction.
The film’s futuristic cityscape, with its towering skyscrapers and advanced technology, has also influenced the visual language of science fiction. The iconic image of the robot, Maria, has become a staple of the genre, appearing in countless films and television shows.
Modern Dystopian Narratives
Metropolis has also influenced modern dystopian narratives, particularly in its exploration of the dangers of unchecked technological progress. The film’s portrayal of a society dominated by machines and automation has become a recurring theme in modern dystopian literature and film.
The film’s allegorical critique of capitalism and industrialization has also influenced modern dystopian narratives, particularly in its exploration of the dehumanizing effects of modern society. The film’s message about the importance of compassion and empathy in the face of social and technological change remains relevant today.
Overall, Metropolis has had a lasting impact on the science fiction and dystopian genres, influencing the visual language and thematic concerns of countless films and other media. Its enduring relevance speaks to the power of film as a medium for exploring complex social and political issues.