Review of Méphisto (1931) by Martin T — 01 Jun 2010

A talented stage actor gradually trades his ideals for success under the Third Reich. It's certainly no coincidence that his signature role is Mephistopholes in "Faust". This movie reminded a lot of Fassbinder: the vivid colors, the period, the particular style of political allegory.

Something like a Fassbinder version of The Conformist, perhaps. Klaus Maria Brandauer is superb in the lead, a very complicated role. As an actor, Hendrik is a natural at putting on a facade, and the audience is often unsure of exactly where he stands.

I would say the film is a little blunt at times, but I still very much enjoyed it.