Following the very modern Barbarian we decided to roll back a few years… over a hundred to be more precise, to watch The Cabinet of Dr Caligari. Apparently one of the earliest recognisable horror films, I thought it may be edifying to go back to the start of the whole genre.

Nacht.

To start, it’s a great film. The backdrops are all excellent and there’s definitely quite a lot going on in terms of story, which is impressive for a silent film where most of the acting seems to involve opening one’s eyes really wide. Despite being monochrome and having multiple fixed theatre-like setscenes (the camera is fixed in one position each time), the film feels vibrant and even arguably ‘colourful.’ It’s not scary per se, but seems packed with layers of meaning. It was made in inter-war Germany, so you can definitely feel there are messages about control, abuse of authority and people’s general ability to ‘go along with’ things.

So are there any recognisable ‘horror’ aspects? Yes. There’s a vaguely dracula-esque character. There are LOTS of wide-eyed horrified looks and some malevolent supernaturalism. Also, we get a ‘twist’ ending and some nicely distorted reality which perfectly fits the twisted, almost cartoonish, scenery.

What are the best bits (intentionally-vague slight-spoilers)? The clever use of light, even if it is artificially painted onto the set using white paint. Some of the shots are so crisp and vibrant, it is often a fully HD experience, albeit with old-timey sepia film. The last act makes you think about the film, and the events therein, as a whole, which is good. There’s a special effect/madness moment where words are appearing across the screen at the same time as the action which seems mould-breaking.

What are the worst bits? It’s old, and reading exposition can seem a little slow. It’s difficult to be afraid of what’s happening, or even feel it’s in any way creepy.

Does it fit with the ‘horror films’ remit? Yes. No doubt. It’ll be good to compare it to something from the same era.