Review of Tartuffe (1926) by Andrey B — 21 Oct 2017
A simple but very effective movie with didactic inclinations, though this fact doesn't spoil the impression of the movie. On the contrary its simple message isn't blurred or covered and serves the right purpose of pointing out hypocrites around you.
The cast couldn't be more outstanding, such great actors comprise it. But while Krauss and Jannings are good as usual both portraying characters with one-sided natures - one is bewitched by the other's evil spell hidden under the fake mantle of holiness in order to achieve his mean goals - Lil Dagover is a real gem here, so passionately and vividly she portrays the desperate wife, the spectrum of her emotions varies greatly which is fascinating to behold.
She earnestly loves her husband and would do anything to retrieve him back from the evil forces in the face of the repulsive Jannings. The shot at the end where she clasps her hands in a prayer thanking the Lord for the help is impressive: her mantle of holiness is clearly not fake.
The structure of the film is surprisingly fresh for the time: film within film, especially when one character breaks the fourth wall and talks to the audience.
This review of Tartuffe (1926) was written by Andrey B on 21 Oct 2017.
Tartuffe has generally received positive reviews.
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