Text Box: Text Box: Text Box: Film Review- ‘Pandora’s Box’ (Die Buchse der Pandora) (German, 1929, Black & White, Silent (piano accompaniment) (Re-release 08/12/06) Brooks Still Sparkling 100 Years on It would have been her 100th Birthday this year, and time still does not take anything away from Louise Brooks in German silent classic, Pandora’s Box. Set in the late 19th century, it tells the story of Lulu, an innocent-looking temptress who has an astonishing sexual power over both men and women without even realizing it- hence the comparison with the Bible’s Pandora. Despite being nearly 80 years since its original release, the film still manages to grab you with powerful emotive acting and the musical accompaniment beautifully captures the mood of the scenes. Brooks is almost flawless in the role, whilst there are strong supporting performances from both Carl Goetz (Schigolch) and Franz Lederer (Alwa Schon). Lulu’s journey takes her from Germany to France and finally to the smog-ridden streets of London where she meets ‘Jack the Ripper’ but it was always going to end tragically, the amount of destruction Lulu causes her admirers throughout the film. Her bohemian approach to life sees her caught in many compromising and difficult situations throughout the film but by the end you can’t help but empathise. Brooks brings soul and energy to the role whilst also still looking glamorous and chic all these years later. Her loyal friend Schigolch follows her every step of the way and a stunning performance from Goetz as the hapless, yet extremely wise old man looking out for her whatever adversity she faces. Goetz plays the role superbly and injects humour as well to a top-drawer acting performance. But it’s not just the acting that makes this picture stand out but also the immensely apt ‘Pandora’ theme of the film. The storyline isn’t as important and due to the intensity of the scenes and the range of emotions to take in, you tend to forget about it, meaning that the film connects so much more than modern efforts. It has changed numerous times over the years and was initially banned upon initial release, mainly due to its realism. In the years before special effects, films had to rely on solid acting and Pandora’s Box really delivers on that front. Thankfully now the original ending has been restored in remarkable quality for such a mature film. If you want to see a true piece of cinematic quality, look no further. (9) CM Text Box: Links and affiliates Contact Me