Cast
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Crew
Director
- Conrad Veidt
Writer
- Hermann Fellner
- Margarete Lindau-Schulz
Producer
- Margarete Lindau-Schulz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Drama film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Wahnsinn presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Conrad Veidt 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 1919, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Wahnsinn took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1919, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular 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 Wahnsinn shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Tarnish, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Wahnsinn offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Rescue and Penny of Top Hill Trail explore similar territory, Wahnsinn 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: October 14, 1919
- Runtime: 1h 10m
