Metropolis (1927) The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928) Drama, Sci-Fi, Biography, History (DVD)

Metropolis (1927) Drama, Sci-Fi
Directed by: Fritz Lang.
Starring: Brigitte Helm, Gustav Fröhlich.

This influential German 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) discovers 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.

Runtime: 153 Minutes

The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928) Biography, Drama, History
Directed by: Carl Theodor Dreyer (as Carl Th. Dreyer).
Starring: Maria Falconetti, Eugene Silvain, André Berley.

A classic of the silent age, this film tells the story of the doomed but ultimately canonized 15th-century teenage warrior. On trial for claiming she'd spoken to God, Jeanne d'Arc (Renee Falconetti) is subjected to inhumane treatment and scare tactics at the hands of church court officials (Eugene Silvain, Andre Berley). Initially bullied into changing her story, Jeanne eventually opts for what she sees as the truth. Her punishment, a famously brutal execution, earns her perpetual martyrdom.

Contained in: Standard DVD Cases.

Format: Either PAL or NTSC (depending on world location), Region 0 (Multi-Region/Worldwide).