"Not a horror film, but a real film of horrors!"

Being a film student has a few perks. Like getting to see unusual films that are both strange and creative in their own way. One of these films which I saw in my first semester was The Cabinet of Dr Caligari.

This film is very unusual in many ways. It was made during the Dada period of film which took place between World War I and World War II. Most people will not have heard of Dadaism and this is because barely any films were created during this period of time and was only when the film industry started moving away from the period that they came about. It was a radically non-commercialised range of films. (revision much?)

Decla-Bioscop (Germany) Goldwyn Distributing Company (US)
 

So, anyway, back to The Cabinet of Dr Caligari. It was made in 1920 and directed by Robert Weine and was considered the benchmark for all horrors up until this date. The film is a brilliant example of counter cinema, countering both Hollywood and France and is steeped in German Romanticism.
There are three main characters in the film: the hero, Francis, the chaste maiden, Jane and the smart businessman, Dr Caligari. However, it is later revealed that the three characters change their roles throughout the film.
Part of what makes this film effective is the narrative framework which is used as it is the ravings of a madman. This creates an atmosphere within the film and makes you question everything you see. The film is created through the use of static shots. By making sure the camera doesn't move this also makes you wonder what else is going on at the same time and adds to the feeling of the film.
In the film there are a number of doubles used. These can be found in all the characters as well as the scenery and setting. A few examples are:

Caligari and Francis - both appear in straight jackets being restrained

Francis and Cesare - desire of Jane, watches over everyone

 

Decla-Bioscop (Germany) Goldwyn Distributing Company (US)

  

A question is thrown into the story when is is questioned whose story is it anyway? To start with you believe the story is of Francis, but throughout this is questioned. The main character whose story it could be besides Francis is Jane as everything concludes around her. Jane's encounter with Caligari is important as it could be that Caligari is just being a dirty old man and perving over Jane (to be blunt) and he points his stick at Jane making sure that all our attention is on her. 

Everything and anything is possible with this film. 

If you fancy watching it after hearing my ramblings there is a version here to view: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrg73BUxJLI