Watch Berlin, Symphony of a Great City

Berlin: Symphony of a Great City (2K Remaster) is a silent documentary film that showcases a day in the life of Berlin in 1927. Directed by Walter Ruttmann and released in the same year, the film provides an intimate and yet sweeping portrait of the city, its people, and their hopes and dreams. The movie starts at dawn, depicting the awakening of the German capital with a captivating montage of different cityscapes. From the buzzing trains and bustling waterways to the quiet streets and still buildings, the film captures the full spectrum of life in Berlin. The camera moves fluidly from one scene to another, slowly revealing the rhythms, sounds, and sights of the city through creative and innovative techniques.

As the day progresses, the film delves deeper into the different aspects of life in Berlin. The audience gets a glimpse of the various modes of transport, including cars, buses, trams, and bicycles. They see the city's different neighborhoods, from the opulent mansions of its wealthy residents to the cramped apartments of its working-class citizens.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Berlin: Symphony of a Great City is its use of juxtaposition to create meaning. The film purposefully plays with contrasts between different scenes, establishing a dialogue between them that reflects the mood and mentality of the city. For example, we see affluent shoppers in luxurious boutiques, followed by shots of beggars and street vendors. This contrast highlights the stark differences between different social classes and the challenges that individuals faced in 1920s Germany.

Throughout the film, the audience sees Berlin in all its glory, capturing the city's vibrant energy, cultural richness, and human diversity. The film contains several memorable moments, such as the footage of street performers, the zoo, and the city’s nightlife. The use of playful music and sound effects adds to the film's overall sense of fun and excitement.

However, the movie doesn't shy away from showing the darker side of Berlin as well. The documentary captures the poverty, pollution, and urban decay that characterized much of the city during the early 20th century. Additionally, the film also includes some political commentary, with shots of political rallies and military parades emphasizing the growing influence of nationalism and militarism in German society.

Overall, Berlin: Symphony of a Great City is a movie that captures the spirit of Berlin during a tumultuous period in its history. It is an excellent example of creative filmmaking and innovative storytelling, and the 2K remaster enhances its visual and audio quality. The film is a powerful reminder of the power of cinema to convey messages and emotions, and it remains just as relevant today as it was almost a century ago.

Berlin, Symphony of a Great City is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 2 minutes.