M (1931)

Directed by Fritz Lang
Screenplay by Fritz Lang & Thea von Harbou
The Criterion Collection

Criterion has re-released and restored Lang's marvelous film M(1931). Peter Lorre plays Hans Beckert, a serial killer of children on the loose in Post WWI Germany. The film isn't a mystery because early on we learn Beckert's identity. Instead, it is a thriller steeped in social commentary that is just as relevant today. The murders become a form of mass entertainment. Mob mentality causes many people to be unjustly suspected and attacked due to gossip and rumors. The local crime leaders get involved with the search for Beckert because the increased police activity is disrupting their businesses. When they corner him in an office building, they knock out the guards and tear up the building trying to find him. The criminals put Beckert on trial where he argues that he can't control what he does while the others make a choice to do wrong, so who are they to judge him.

M is a feast for the eyes. Lang was part of the German Expressionism movement, which started in silent films. This film is a fine example of how good black & white can look, especially it its use of shadows. As a director Lang makes a number of great decisions that elevate the film. He never shows you the murders, leaving it all to your imagination. He has parallel scenes running where both city officials and gang leaders are holding meeting about what to do about the serial killer. The scenes are intercut so a city official will start a sentence with a criminal finishing it and vice versa. He places the camera in interesting positions and has a great tracking shot that runs through the beggars' den.

Article Author: El Bicho

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