Review of Maniac (1934) by Sabina B — 06 Jun 2011
This is one of those movies, that if viewed today, and compared to today's standards, would be classified as a horrible movie, and rightly so. The acting is bad and laughable, the plot simplistic, and the film style bland and unimaginative.
However, if viewed with an eye towards its place in the evolution of cinema, this film does have value. Made when movies were making the transition from silent to sound, this movie illustrates how movies were adjusting. There are elements that are trademarks of silent films- the title screens adding exposition to the film, and the exagerated, stylized, and theatrical acting common to the previous era of film.
This film also illustrates the beginning of the exploitation genre of films, using various taboos to garner an audience: hints of necrophilia, insanity, and scantily clad ladies lounging around in their frillies.
While this film won't satisfy casual audiences, it is worth it for students of film history to give it a look, in order to see part of the evolution of cinema.
This review of Maniac (1934) was written by Sabina B on 06 Jun 2011.
Maniac has generally received mixed reviews.
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