Metropolis

Fritz Lang, 1926 (90 mins, Cert. A)

The year is 2026, a Dickensian best of times, worst of times, where total oppression and manipulation of the masses is welded by the unquestionable power of the few. Far below the city of Metropolis is the underground city where machines are operated by the workers who live even further below. Day after day, in mechanical routine they are forced to the limits of human endurance...
(Playhouse publicity)

A wonderful, entrancing, totally unforgettable film! A torrent of breathtaking images tell a moving story of opression, revolt, love, deception, and hope. Deservedly regarded as a cinematic classic it transcends the last seventy-odd years and remains powerfully relevant today. The print we saw was in excellent condition, made by the Britsh Film Institute in the sixties, with a running time of around 90 minutes. Truly a work of exceptional stature.
(Steve Fagg)

Seen: Tuesday, 4th May, 1999 (Harlow Playhouse)