Cast
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Emil Jannings
as Immanuel Rath
Marlene Dietrich
as Lola Lola
Kurt Gerron
as Kiepert
Rosa Valetti
as Guste
Hans Albers
as Mazeppa
Reinhold Bernt
as The Clown
Károly Huszár
as The Blue Angel's Proprietor
Eduard von Winterstein
as School Headmaster
Hans Roth
as Bedel
Rolf Müller
as Pupil
Roland Varno
as Pupil
Carl Ballhaus
as Pupil
Robert Klein-Lörk
as Pupil
Wilhelm Diegelmann
as Captain
Gerhard Bienert
as Policeman
Crew
Director
- Josef von Sternberg
Writer
- Carl Winston
- Robert Liebmann
- Karl Vollmöller
- Carl Zuckmayer
- Josef von Sternberg
Producer
- Erich Pommer
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This really is a story of bitter-sweet love and Emil Jannings and Marlene Dietrich carry it off with consummate skill. He as a set-in-his-ways academic bent on ensuring his pupils are not corrupted by the distracting influences of "the Blue Angel" inn; she one of the principle bad influences who wishes exactly the opposite. Essentially this is a love story; but is the love ever reciprocated - could it have been; should it have been? The two stars lead us in a dance that pulls at the heart strings whilst the brain is shouting out completely different instructions. It is compelling, all the more so because it proves to be as much about human dignity as about anything else. Needless to say, when she sings, Dietrich is captivating - and I'm thankful it wasn't me she wanted to get her hooks into!
Jun 6, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Blue Angel examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Josef von Sternberg brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1930, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Blue Angel took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 57 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1353 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1930, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Blue Angel shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Metropolis, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Blue Angel offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Apocalypse Now and Blade Runner explore similar territory, The Blue Angel stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 1, 1930
- Runtime: 1h 48m
Where to Watch
