IAF Presents Iconic Screening of Fritz Lang’s Masterpiece ‘Metropolis’

Experience the cinematic brilliance of the restored version of the 1927 German science fiction film “Metropolis,” directed by Fritz Lang. This iconic film will be showcased at the Iranian Artists Forum (IAF) in Tehran this Friday, providing an exceptional opportunity for film enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike.

The screening will take place in the Nasseri Hall of the IAF at 6 p.m., featuring a duration of 153 minutes and presented with Persian subtitles. The film, originally a black-and-white silent feature, seamlessly navigates between expressionism and new objectivity, offering a unique visual experience.

“Metropolis” is adapted from the original novel by Thea von Harbou, with the screenplay co-written by her and Fritz Lang, who were married during the film’s production. It boasts a remarkable cast, including Brigitte Helm, Gustav Fröhlich, Alfred Abel, and Rudolf Klein-Rogge in leading roles.

The narrative unfolds in a futuristic city, starkly divided between the working class and the elite city planners. The story follows the son of the city’s mastermind, who becomes enamored with a working-class prophet predicting the arrival of a savior to bridge the gap between the two worlds.

Upon its initial release, “Metropolis” was met with critical and commercial failure. Despite being the most expensive film ever made at that time, it faced significant cuts shortly after its debut. However, the film underwent a remarkable transformation in the latter half of the 20th century, gradually being recognized as a major masterpiece in cinema history.

Today, “Metropolis” is celebrated for its profound influence on modern popular culture, with its themes and visual style resonating in various artistic expressions. It has been restored multiple times throughout the years, and in 2001, it made history as the first film to be included in the UNESCO Memory of the World International Register, solidifying its cultural significance.

About Fritz Lang

Fritz Lang (1890-1976) was an influential Austro-Hungarian director who later became a dual national of Germany by marriage in 1919 and a naturalized American citizen in 1935. Throughout his illustrious career, Lang pioneered numerous innovative cinematic techniques that have since become industry standards. He earned the moniker “Master of Darkness” due to his distinctive style and thematic explorations.

Lang introduced an expressionist aesthetic to cinematography in 1919, which laid the groundwork for a new cinematic school and notably inspired the development of film noir. His films are characterized by recurring motifs, including:

• Revenge and its consequences
• The death drive that threatens both individuals and society
• The manipulation of the masses by a superhuman figure
• The struggle for power and its inherent violence
• The exploration of freedom intertwined with evil
• The theme of the double, depicting an unsettling duality

These themes resonate throughout much of Lang’s oeuvre, captivating audiences and critics alike with their depth and complexity.

The upcoming screening of “Metropolis” at the Iranian Artists Forum presents a rare chance to witness this cinematic landmark in its restored glory. Film lovers and cultural enthusiasts are encouraged to attend this event, which promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with a film that has shaped the landscape of cinema and continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and viewers alike.

Join us at the IAF this Friday evening for a journey back in time to experience the visionary artistry of Fritz Lang and the timeless narrative of “Metropolis.”