Fiction / Germany/ 1919 / 64’ / Black & White
Intertitles: German / Subtitles: Turkish
The Doll stands out in Ernst Lubitsch’s filmography as one of the most peculiar films he made in Germany before his move to Hollywood. A classic of the early period, it is adapted from a short story by E. T. A. Hoffmann. Young Lancelot is the sole inheritor of his noble uncle, but he doesn’t want to get married due to his shy and reserved nature. However, his uncle is determined to get him married. He organises a party and asks Lancelot to choose a bride from forty candidates. Intimidated by them, Lancelot takes refuge in a monastery, where the priests learn about his inheritance. They persuade Lancelot to marry an automaton, but it breaks down right before the marriage ceremony. In many ways, The Doll can be seen as a perfect example of popular industrial imagination, which was deeply influenced by machines and speed.
Director: Ernst Lubitsch
Cast: Herman Thimig, Ossi Oswalda, Victor Janson
Musicians: Günter Buchwald (Piano) & Frank Bockius (Percussion)
Presentation: Elif Rongen Kaynakçı (Eye Filmmuseum, Amsterdam)