M

M (1931) - Review

Wow. Taken by itself, this seems like a rather good, old black-and-white film. Nothing especially spectacular. That is until one realizes the context. It's obviously film noir, but until this film, the genre didn't exist. It's a psychological crime thriller, which did not exist as a genre. It is a talkie, which had not been done in Germany until this film. Apparently director Fritz Lang single-handedly, and in one swell foop, created not one but two classic film genres - film noir and psychological crime drama (think Silence of the Lambs).

A young Peter Lorre is a sight to behold as the monstrous bad guy.

The review I linked to above is a modern review of the DVD. The New York Times review from 1933 is an interesting perspective. The review lauds the film but is horrified that such talent and effort was "wasted" on the subject matter.

(out of 5)