FILM EVENT: Metropolis, with music by Jeff Rapsis

Metropolis, a German silent film, released in 1927, featuring director Fritz Lang’s vision of a grim futuristic society and containing some of the most impressive images in film history.

This influential science-fiction film presents a highly stylized futuristic city where a beautiful and cultured utopia exists above a bleak underworld populated by mistreated workers.

When the privileged youth Freder (Gustav Fröhlich) discover the grim scene under the city, he becomes intent on helping the workers. He befriends the rebellious teacher Maria (Brigitte Helm), but this puts him at odds with his authoritative father, leading to greater conflict.

The screening, the latest in the Colonial’s silent film series, will feature live accompaniment by Jeff Rapsis, a New Hampshire-based composer who specializes in creating music for silent films.

Release date: March 13, 1927 (USA)

Director: Fritz Lang