Das Cabinet des Dr. Caligari (The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari)

1920, Robert Wiene, Germany, 74 min.

(silent film, German intertitles with English subtitles)

Introduced by astrologer Michael Lutin

Zodiac: Aquarius (Conrad Veidt’s dominant birth sign)

Whether or not The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is the first true horror film, it is regarded as the quintessential cinematic example of German Expressionism. Its distorted perspectives skew our sense of reality and its pervasive sense of dread leaches into our sense of right and wrong. Among its notable effects are the somnambulist Cesare’s (Conrad Veidt) rooftop prowlings, as he carries out crimes at the hypnotic behest of the psychiatrist—or perhaps even that of society at large?

“A landmark of silent cinema. Filmed when Germany was suffering a severe shortage of right angles, it is chock-full of skewed windows, crooked doors and warped walkways, not to mention freakishly made-up characters.”

—Neil Genzlinger, New York Times

About Cabaret Cinema: Dreams & Prophecy

Inspired by the Astro Poets, the whimsical astrologers beloved by the Twitterverse, Cabaret Cinema looks beyond the stars of Hollywood to the stars in the sky this summer. Twelve films aligned with the signs of the zodiac ensure there’s something for everyone. Whether you were born under a Black Moon or Sans Soleil, come see what the cinema of the past portends for the future.