Silent Era’s Whimsical World

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Doll (Die Puppe)
I Don’t Want to Be a Man (Ich möchte kein Mann sein)
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Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Sci-Fi/Comedy, Romance
Year Released: 1919/1918, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 6m/45m
Director(s): Ernst Lubitsch
Writer(s): E.T.A. Hoffmann, Hanns Kräly, Ernst Lubitsch, A.E. Willner
Cast: Max Kronert, Hermann Thimig, Victor Janson, Marga Köhler, Ossi Oswalda, Gerhard Ritterband, Jakob Tiedtke, Josefine Dora
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Let’s stroll into the world of silent film, shall we? Picture the golden age of silent movies. Hold that thought and journey with Ernst Lubitsch, the genius behind many iconic screen treasures. With this dual spectacle, Lubitsch catapults us into a whimsical world with THE DOLL while introducing the thought-provoking layers of I DON’T WANT TO BE A MAN.

Diving headfirst into THE DOLL, we meet Lancelot. He’s on the cusp of tying the knot, but with whom you ask? A doll—or so he thinks! This narrative genius, reminiscent of cinema’s silent spellbinders, blurs the line between fantasy and reality. Lubitsch, weaving his magic with Hoffman’s tale, paints a poignant picture of youthful trepidation at the edge of adulthood.

But it isn’t all silent brooding. No, Lubitsch’s signature theatrical humor infuses life into THE DOLL. Before you can even get to grips with the plot, there’s a whirlwind of slapstick, echoing the comedic charm of greats from yesteryears. From chuckle-worthy takes on monastic escapades to Lancelot’s bumbling journey into matrimony, this movie will keep you tickled pink. And a special shoutout to the puppet master’s lively assistant! Their presence is like a fun throwback to the golden era of stage comedy.

Yet, amidst the laughter, Ossi takes center stage. Not content with merely being a ‘puppet,’ she struts, confronts, and dazzles, challenging the norms of her time. Ossi adds a zing to the film with her vibrant audacity, questioning, and often hilariously toppling societal constructs.

Now, a word to the purists: while some might find the humor a tad grandiose, let’s remember it encapsulates the spirit of the age. It’s a frothy mix of drama and fun, seasoned perfectly with Martin Smolka’s captivating score. THE DOLL isn’t just a movie; it’s a nod to an era we fondly reminisce about.

However, don’t rest on your laurels just yet. Lubitsch swiftly steers us into the vibrant world of Ossi Oswalda in I DON’T WANT TO BE A MAN. It was a quick journey at just 45 minutes but an exhilarating dash! Ossi’s eyes invite us to question and often chuckle at gender perceptions. Especially heartening is her tender interaction with Dr. Kersten, a nod to evolving societal outlooks.

This shorter cinematic marvel might have a breezier tone, but it undoubtedly showcases the harmonious melding of Lubitsch’s direction and Oswalda’s performance. Every frame, every expression feels like a dance between director and actor. And let’s remember the enchanting score by Neil Brand that ties the entire piece together.

In conclusion, look no further if your cinematic appetite seeks nostalgia and novelty. Lubitsch serves up a sumptuous visual feast. Whether you’re a casual movie-goer or have a penchant for silent classics, there’s something here for everyone. Embrace the allure of Lubitsch’s double feature. It’s not just a watch; it’s an experience! These films strike a chord and are even more timely now than 100 years ago when they were made. The stories they tell and the norms they knock over are a mirror into the past and show just how silly modern-day perceptions are. I would highly recommend watching these with the included Audio commentary for both films by Joseph McBride, author of the critical study “How Did Lubitsch Do It?”

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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