One of the most revered films of all time makes its return to Blu-ray with a limited edition 2-disc steelbook courtesy of Eureka Entertainment. Robert Weine’s The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari sent shockwaves around the world upon its original release in 1920, as its jagged set design, haunting characters and powerful message. It also gave the German Expressionist movement global attention. Remarkably, nearly a century later, the film has still managed to surprise, scare and inspire audiences. Watching the film today, it is easy to see why.
In a small German town, Dr. Caligari (Werner Krauss), a hypnotist, unveils his latest feat at the town carnival: a somnambulist named Cesare (an unforgettable Conrad Veidt) who can predict the townspeople’s’ future. When it gets dark, Caligari awakens Cesare to do his evil bidding, spurring the community into chaos. Francis (Friedrich Feher) is horrified by the murder of his friend, and launches an investigation into the mysterious Caligari.
The film is masterful for many reasons, all of which have been written about extensively. What really makes Caligari feel so timely almost 100 years later is its message. Focusing on the idea of power and control, Caligari is positioned as a ruthless dictator while his somnambulist, Cesare, is symbolic of a typical man conditioned to follow orders. The film is a condemnation of such activity, and when viewed as an allegory for authority and conformity, its impact increases tenfold. Caligari is still a chilling, unique, and fascinating experience from beginning to the shocking twist ending.
The Blu-ray presentation is nothing short of astounding. The film has never looked better, and Masters of Cinema have really outdone themselves. Working with the F.W. Murnau foundation restoration, the transfer has astonishing clarity and depth, and images feel sharp and smooth in motion. The audio includes both a linear PCM track and a new DTS-HD 5.1 surround track, both of which bring out the magic in the film score.
The special features for this release are nothing short of incredible. Included is a top-notch commentary from David Kalat, who brings an extensive historical context to the film. A video essay by critic David Cairns, video’s detailing the film’s restoration, and a booklet featuring a great essay by Lotte H. Eisner and rare archival imagery is just some of what is included in the package. Also included is Caligari: The Birth of Horror in the First World War, a documentary on the film’s impact. While all of these features were included in Masters of Cinema’s 2014 Blu-ray release, exclusive to the steelbook on a second disc is From Caligari to Hitler, a two-hour documentary focusing on Siegfried Kracauer’s influential 1947 book about German cinema during the Weimar Republic (1918-1933).
Though the documentary is especially well produced (the use of music is inspired, and the archival clips chosen look beautiful), it never feels particularly ground-breaking, and focusing on rehashing the books narrative rather than reaching out into new depths. Though it would be of particular interest to those unfamiliar with the original work, it offers less to those familiar with the source material. The documentary also ignores the significant debate following Kracauer’s work, but this is still a worthwhile addition to the release.
All in all, a masterful film has been given an equally brilliant release. There is no better version of Caligari available on home video, and a there is a really impressive amount of content here. For those who already own the 2014 release, this limited edition iteration brings a lovely steelbook package and a new documentary into the mix. For those who do not own the film, however, this is an absolute must buy for all who love cinema.
