The very first sience fiction movie in widescreen history, Metropolis, though silent says alot. A well thought out combination of intense acting (as is in silent flicks and more), it mainly shows that people were becoming uncomfortable by the extensive use of machines even as early as the 1920s. But what's it like?

The opening scene takes place in what seems to be an enormous factory, run by hundreds of overworked unfortunates. They deal with large leavers, alot of steam and huge machines. The atmosphere is intense, as the workers resemble zombified robots who have no choice but to work till they drop. These represent the lower class. The "factory" turns out to be the underground base of a surfaced city in which the rich and upper class live. Some may wonder if the writer wanted somehow to express his political beliefs though Metropolis, as if one may notice, there is a tinge of hostility towards socialist/communist beliefs.

A character resembling the Virgin Mary (as some have implied) played by Brigitte Helm represents the need of the lower class to keep their faith even in difficult times. They are in continuous awe of her, as she speaks of the lord and of the wonderful life to come. She brings forth the need for people to rely on eachother and on themselves to survive the hardships of their life.

Metropolis all in all somehow portrays a certain fear towards god and humanity's future if there is no change in the events taking place (as is constant unfairness towards your fellow man and all the more reliance on technology). A certain scene farther into the plot may even bring to mind the Tower of Babel.

Can be viewed and enjoyed by any kind of audience, including children. This one should not be missed.