Photography has long claimed to represent the “real.” Film, in contrast, has long been a medium for questioning what constitutes reality, the real, and the truth. The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is one of the earliest examples of this genre.
Reflect on the various ways that The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari undermined or played with your understanding of reality and the truth in the film. Consider the story line, but also the music, scenery, acting, lighting, and cinematography. Which features did you find most noticeable and notable?
Then, imagine you were to create a murder-mystery silent film set in present day New York City. What ways might you use the city and features of the city to play with the viewer’s understanding of the reality or the “truth” as related to the murder-mystery. Remember this is a silent film, so you can use words, but only in the form of intertitles. Write up your thoughts by Sunday night, and be ready to discuss in class on Tuesday, October 24.
Deadline for blog post: Sunday, October 22nd at 5:00 pm
We will follow up with this assignment when we discuss the City Stories module in class on October 24th, so no comments are due to peers.
