Fritz Lang was an Austrian-born filmmaker who made over 50 films. He directed the 1927 classic Metropolis, which is considered to be one of the greatest movies ever made. 

Lang also directed M and Fury, two other classics that have since become cult hits.

Lang was born in Vienna in 1898. His father was a conservative politician who led a vehement anti-Semitic movement in Austria. As a result, Lang grew up with anti-Semitic views himself.

Who Is Fritz Lang?

In 1921, Lang moved to Hollywood where he began working as an assistant director at Warner Bros Studios. There he met Darryl F. Zanuck and became friends with him and his wife Olive Borden (who would later work with him on his films).

Lang quickly became known for his talent and innovation when it came to film technology.

For example, Lang used anamorphic lenses for the first time in Metropolis, which was one of his most famous films featuring futuristic cities and robots that look like humans but are actually mechanical beings designed to destroy humanity.

Best Fritz Lang Films        

When it comes to the best Fritz Lang films, we think you’ll agree that Metropolis is a must-watch. The 1927 sci-fi epic was the first film produced by Lang, who went on to create classics like The New York Story, M and Fearless.

Metropolis is based on a German sci-fi novel by Thea von Harbou, which was adapted into a play by Lang in 1926.

It tells the story of Freder (Peter Nestler), who works as an underground worker at the city of Metropolis a futuristic city where robots and humans work together for the good of everyone else.

When Freder meets Maria (Thea Von Harbou), he falls in love with her but soon learns she’s part of a group called The Sons Of The Mind and they want to overthrow their masters, the gods.

As chaos erupts around them, Freder tries to save Maria from being killed by one of her own kind.

Characteristics of Fritz Lang Films         

In Fritz Lang’s films, he used the camera in a very unique way. He was able to make his films more stylistic by using angles and lighting.

He also used this technique to create suspense and shock.

Many of his films involve themes such as crime, corruption and corruption.

In most of his films, there is a clear villain that is depicted as evil or bad.

   

In most of his films, there are three main characters who play different roles throughout the film.

The first character is usually the hero/heroine who has to fight against the bad guys or monsters.

The second character could be an ally or friend to the hero/heroine who helps them on their quest or journey.

The third character could be an enemy who tries to stop what is happening in the story or movie from happening again. Another characteristic about Fritz Lang’s films is their use of violence;

however, there are some movies that have no violence at all such as “Metropolis”.

Another characteristic about Fritz Lang’s films is their use of psychology; however, there are some movies that have no psychology at all such as “M” (1931) which starred Peter Lorre as an insane serial killer with telekinetic powers.”

1. Metropolis (1927)

Metropolis is a timeless masterpiece that has stood the test of time.

Fritz Lang’s dystopian vision of the future is a stunning visual spectacle that still manages to captivate audiences nearly a century after its release.

The film’s themes of class struggle and the dangers of unchecked industrialization are as relevant today as they were in the 1920s.

The contrast between the wealthy upper class and the oppressed working class is brilliantly portrayed through the towering skyscrapers of the city and the dark, claustrophobic underworld where the workers toil.

The special effects and set design are truly remarkable, especially considering the limitations of technology at the time of its production.

The iconic robot, Maria, is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the filmmakers.

The film’s message is powerful, and its impact can still be felt today.

Metropolis is a must-see for any cinephile and a testament to the power of cinema to tell stories that transcend time and place.

 

The Complete Metropolis (Silent)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Brigitte Helm, Gustav Froelich, Rudolf Klein-Rogge (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Fritz Lang (Writer) - Erich Pommer (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

2. The Big Heat (1953)

The Big Heat is a classic film noir that hits all the right notes. Starring Glenn Ford as Detective Dave Bannion, the film tells the story of a cop who becomes embroiled in a web of corruption and violence after the suicide of a fellow officer.

The performances are top-notch, with Ford delivering a compelling and nuanced portrayal of a man pushed to the brink.

The film is gritty and intense, with moments of shocking violence that still pack a punch today. Director Fritz Lang expertly builds tension throughout the film, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

The story is well-crafted and features twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

The Big Heat is a must-see for fans of film noir and crime thrillers.

It’s a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and remains just as powerful today as it was when it was first released.

 

The Big Heat
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Glenn Ford, Gloria Grahame, Jocelyn Brando (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Sydney Boehm (Writer) - Robert Arthur (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

3. M (1931)

M is a chilling masterpiece from director Fritz Lang that has stood the test of time as one of the greatest films ever made.

   

The film follows the manhunt for a child murderer in Berlin, as both the police and the criminal underworld search for the elusive culprit.

What makes M so compelling is its exploration of societal morality and justice.

Lang expertly weaves together themes of guilt, punishment, and redemption, as we see the city’s citizens grapple with their own complicity in the crimes and the consequences of vigilantism.

Peter Lorre’s haunting performance as the murderer is unforgettable, capturing both his desperation and his depravity.

The film’s use of sound and silence is also masterful, adding to the tension and atmosphere of the piece.

 

M (English Subtitled)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Peter Lorre, Ellen Widmann, Inge Landgut (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Thea von Harbou (Writer) - Seymour Nebenzal (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

4. Scarlet Street (1945) 

Scarlet Street is an intense film noir that delves deeply into the mind of a desperate man.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, this film is a masterpiece of suspense and tension.

The story revolves around Chris Cross (Edward G. Robinson), a timid cashier who falls in love with a young woman named Kitty (Joan Bennett).

Kitty, who is actually a manipulative gold-digger, convinces Chris to give her money by pretending to be interested in him.

As Chris becomes more and more obsessed with Kitty, he begins to embezzle money from his employer in order to support her lavish lifestyle.

The acting in Scarlet Street is superb, with Robinson giving a standout performance as the pitiable Chris.

Bennett is also excellent as the conniving Kitty, and Dan Duryea is perfectly cast as her sleazy boyfriend.

What sets Scarlet Street apart from other film noirs is its psychological depth. The film explores the complex motivations of its characters, as well as the corrosive effects of guilt and obsession.

The cinematography is also impressive, with Lang using shadows and light to create a haunting atmosphere.

 

Scarlet Street
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, Dan Duryea (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Dudley Nichols (Writer) - Fritz Lang (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

5. Destiny (1921)             

Destiny is an enchanting and ethereal silent film that takes you on a journey through the afterlife.

The film is directed by the legendary German filmmaker, Fritz Lang, and is a true masterpiece of the silent era.

The story follows a young woman who loses her lover to the clutches of Death.

Determined to be reunited with her lover, she sets out on a quest to find Death and convince him to give her lover back.

Along the way, she encounters a series of surreal and otherworldly landscapes, and must navigate her way through a series of obstacles and challenges.

What makes Destiny so captivating is its use of stunning visuals and imaginative storytelling.

Lang’s direction is superb, and he creates a world that is both haunting and beautiful.

The film’s use of special effects is also impressive, particularly for a film made in the early 1920s.

 

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Destiny
  • Lil Dagover (Actor)
  • Fritz Lang (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

6. The Testament of Dr. Mabuse (1933)

The Testament of Dr. Mabuse is a gripping and suspenseful film that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, this film is a masterclass in tension-building and storytelling.

The film follows the police as they try to unravel a series of crimes committed by Dr. Mabuse, a criminal mastermind who seems to have the power to control people’s minds.

As the investigation progresses, the police discover that Dr. Mabuse has left behind a testament, detailing his plans for a new world order.

The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly Rudolf Klein-Rogge as Dr. Mabuse, who is both charismatic and terrifying.

The cinematography is also excellent, with Lang using light and shadow to create a sense of unease and suspense that permeates throughout the film.

What sets The Testament of Dr. Mabuse apart from other crime thrillers of its time is its exploration of the power of propaganda and manipulation.

This theme is still relevant today, making the film feel both timeless and timely.

 

Das Testament Des Dr Mabuse [Masters of Cinema] (Dual Format Edition) [Blu-ray] [1933]
  • The Testament of Dr. Mabuse ( Das Testament des Dr. Mabuse ) ( Das Tagebuch des Dr. Mabuse (The Crim
  • The Testament of Dr. Mabuse
  • Das Testament des Dr. Mabuse
  • Das Tagebuch des Dr. Mabuse (The Crimes of Dr. Mabuse)
  • Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Gustav Diessl, Rudolf Schündler (Actors)

7. Fury (1936)   

Fury is a gripping drama that explores the dark side of human nature and the devastating consequences of mob mentality.

Spencer Tracy gives a powerful performance as Joe Wilson, a man wrongly accused of a crime and nearly lynched by a furious mob.

The film is a commentary on the dangers of blind justice and the importance of due process, as Joe is forced to confront the reality that the people he thought were his friends and neighbors are capable of uns violence.

Director Fritz Lang masterfully builds tension throughout the film, using shadowy lighting and stark visuals to create a sense of foreboding.

The scenes of the lynch mob are especially chilling, as the camera lingers on the faces of the angry townspeople, revealing the fear and hatred that fuels their actions.

Despite its bleak subject matter, Fury is a must-see film that still resonates today.

It’s a reminder that justice is not always served and that we must remain vigilant against the dangers of groupthink and mob rule.

 

Fury (1936)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Sylvia Sidney, Spencer Tracy, Walter Abel (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Bartlett Cormack (Writer) - Joseph L. Mankiewicz (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

8. Spies (1928)  

Spies is a thrilling silent film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, this movie follows the story of a spy who is tasked with infiltrating a criminal organization.

The plot is full of twists and turns, and the characters are complex and well-developed.

The cinematography in Spies is nothing short of stunning.

The camera work is masterful, with Lang using a variety of techniques to create a sense of tension and suspense.

The film is also notable for its use of light and shadow, which adds to the overall atmosphere of the movie.

The acting in Spies is top-notch, with standout performances from Rudolf Klein-Rogge and Gerda Maurus.

Klein-Rogge plays the villain with a chilling intensity, while Maurus brings a sense of vulnerability to her role as the spy’s love interest.

 

Spies (Silent)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Fritz Rasp, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Willy Fritsch (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Thea von Harbou (Writer) - Erich Pommer (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

9. Die Nibelungen: Siegfried (1924)        

Die Nibelungen: Siegfried is an epic German silent film that tells the story of the legendary hero Siegfried and his quest to win the hand of the beautiful Kriemhild.

Directed by the visionary filmmaker Fritz Lang, this film is a true masterpiece of the silent era.

From the opening scene, it is clear that this film is something special. The cinematography is stunning, with sweeping shots of the German countryside and intricate set designs that transport the viewer back to the medieval era.

The attention to detail is astounding, and every aspect of the film – from the costumes to the special effects – is executed with precision and skill.

But what really sets Die Nibelungen: Siegfried apart is its storytelling. The film is based on the ancient Germanic saga of the Nibelungenlied, and Lang brings the story to life with an incredible sense of drama and emotion.

The characters are complex and nuanced, and the themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal are explored in a way that is both timeless and deeply moving.

At its heart, Die Nibelungen: Siegfried is a film about the power of myth and legend. It is a reminder of the stories that have shaped our culture and our collective imagination, and a tribute to the enduring power of storytelling itself.

 

Los Nibelungos (Ed.Remasterizada) (1924) (2brp) (Die Nibelungen: Siegfried (Siegfrieds Tod) (Die Nibelungen - Teil I) (Kriemhilds Rache (Die Nibelungen - Teil II) (Blu-ray) (Import Edition) (Non Us Format) (Region 2)
  • Margarete Schön, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Georg John, Theodor Loos, Hans Adalbert von Schlettow,...
  • Fritz Lang (Director)
  • Castilian, Portuguese (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)

10. Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler (1922)      

Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler is a thrilling masterpiece of German expressionism that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Fritz Lang’s direction is impeccable, creating a dark and mysterious world that is both captivating and haunting.

The film follows the diabolical Dr. Mabuse, a criminal mastermind who uses his hypnotic powers to manipulate and control those around him.

As he schemes and gambles his way through the corrupt underworld of Berlin, the tension and suspense build to an explosive finale that will leave you breathless.

The performances are superb, with Rudolf Klein-Rogge delivering a chilling portrayal of the evil Dr. Mabuse, and Gustav Diessl bringing a sense of desperation and vulnerability to the character of the young gambler, Folkestone.

The cinematography is also a standout feature of the film, with its use of shadows and angles adding to the overall sense of unease and foreboding.

 

Dr. Mabuse, The Gambler (Silent)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Gertrude Welcker, Bernhard Goetzke, Rudolf Klein-Rogge (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Fritz Lang (Writer) - Erich Pommer (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

11. The Woman in the Window (1944)  

The Woman in the Window is an intriguing and suspenseful film noir that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Directed by Fritz Lang and starring Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, and Raymond Massey, the film follows a successful professor who finds himself embroiled in a murder plot after he becomes infatuated with a mysterious woman.

The cinematography in this film is exceptional, with shadowy lighting and dramatic camera angles that heighten the tension and add to the overall sense of unease.

The performances are also top-notch, with Robinson delivering a nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his rational mind and his desires, and Bennett playing the enigmatic femme fatale with a mix of vulnerability and cunning.

What sets The Woman in the Window apart from other films of its genre is its unexpected twist ending, which will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the characters and their motivations.

 

The Woman In The Window
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, Raymond Massey (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Nunnally Johnson (Writer) - Nunnally Johnson (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

12. Ministry of Fear (1944)          

Ministry of Fear is a classic film noir that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows Stephen Neale (played by Ray Milland), a man recently released from a mental institution, who becomes embroiled in a web of espionage and murder after winning a cake at a charity event.

Director Fritz Lang masterfully creates a tense and atmospheric world filled with shadowy characters and unexpected twists.

The film’s use of lighting and camera angles adds to the overall sense of unease and paranoia that permeates the story.

Ray Milland delivers a standout performance as Neale, a man trying to uncover the truth while also dealing with his own demons.

The supporting cast, including Marjorie Reynolds and Dan Duryea, also deliver strong performances.

 

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Ministry of Fear (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Ray Milland (Actor)
  • Fritz Lang (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)

13. Die Nibelungen: Kriemhild’s Revenge (1924)              

Die Nibelungen: Kriemhild’s Revenge (1924) is an epic masterpiece that redefines the meaning of revenge.

Fritz Lang’s direction is nothing short of spectacular, as he brings to life the tragic tale of Kriemhild’s quest for vengeance against the Burgundians who killed her husband.

The film’s stunning visual effects and intricate set design transport the viewer to another time and place, immersing them in the world of the medieval Germanic tribes.

The battle scenes are breathtakingly choreographed, and the cinematography captures the raw emotion of the characters as they face their fates.

The performances by the cast are equally impressive, with Margarete Schön delivering a standout portrayal of the vengeful Kriemhild.

Her transformation from a vulnerable woman to a fierce warrior is captivating, and the audience can feel her pain and anger as she seeks retribution for the loss of her loved ones.

Die Nibelungen: Kriemhild’s Revenge (1924) is a timeless classic that deserves to be remembered for its artistic vision and powerful storytelling.

It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves historical dramas, epic battles, and tragic romances. Don’t miss out on this cinematic masterpiece.

 

Die Nibelungen: Kriemhild’s Revenge
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Margarete Schön, Gertrud Arnold, Theodor Loos (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Thea von Harbou (Writer) - Erich Pommer (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

14. Human Desire (1954)

“Human Desire” is a gripping film noir that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Based on Emile Zola’s novel “La Bête Humaine,” the film follows the story of Jeff Warren, a train engineer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous love triangle with his co-worker Carl Buckley and Carl’s wife Vicki.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, “Human Desire” is a masterclass in tension and suspense.

The film’s dark and moody atmosphere is perfectly complemented by the stellar performances of its cast, with Glenn Ford delivering a standout turn as the conflicted Jeff, and Broderick Crawford bringing a sense of menace to the role of Carl.

The film’s themes of desire, betrayal, and moral ambiguity make for a thought-provoking viewing experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

While “Human Desire” may not be as well-known as some of Lang’s other works, it’s a must-see for any fan of the film noir genre.”

 

Human Desire (1954) [ Blu-Ray, Reg.A/B/C Import - Spain ]
  • Human Desire (1954)
  • Human Desire (1954)
  • Glenn Ford, Gloria Grahame, Broderick Crawford (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Human Desire (1954) (Producer)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)

15. Clash by Night (1952)

Clash by Night is a gripping drama that delves deep into the complexities of human relationships.

Directed by Fritz Lang, the film boasts of a stellar cast including Barbara Stanwyck, Paul Douglas, Robert Ryan, and Marilyn Monroe.

The film follows the story of Mae Doyle (Barbara Stanwyck), a tough and independent woman who returns to her hometown after a failed marriage.

She finds solace in the arms of Jerry (Paul Douglas), a kind-hearted fisherman who is deeply in love with her.

However, Mae’s past catches up with her when her former lover Earl (Robert Ryan) resurfaces and tries to win her back.

The performances in this film are top-notch, with Stanwyck delivering a powerful portrayal of a woman torn between her desires and her sense of morality.

Douglas is equally impressive as the lovable Jerry, while Ryan’s Earl is a complex and intriguing character who adds an element of tension to the story.

Lang’s direction is masterful, capturing the bleakness of the industrial town and the emotional turmoil of the characters with great finesse.

The film’s themes of love, desire, and loyalty are explored in a nuanced and thought-provoking manner, making it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema.

It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the complexities of the human experience.

 

Clash by Night
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Barbara Stanwyck, Paul Douglas, Robert Ryan (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Alfred Hayes (Writer) - Harriet Parsons (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

16. You Only Live Once (1937)   

“You Only Live Once” is a gritty and intense film noir that showcases the raw talent of director Fritz Lang and lead actors Henry Fonda and Sylvia Sidney.

Fonda plays Eddie Taylor, a wrongfully accused ex-convict who is determined to start a new life with his loyal wife, Jo (Sidney).

However, their hopes are shattered when they are caught up in a series of unfortunate events that lead to a tragic outcome.

Lang’s signature style of stark contrasts and shadowy visuals perfectly captures the mood of the film, while Fonda and Sidney’s performances are nothing short of spectacular.

Their chemistry is palpable, and their characters’ love for each other is the driving force of the story.

The film’s themes of redemption, injustice, and the harsh realities of life are still relevant today, making “You Only Live Once” a timeless classic.

 

You Only Live Once
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Sylvia Sidney, Henry Fonda, Barton Maclane (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Gene Towne (Writer) - Walter Wanger (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

17. Hangmen Also Die! (1943)

Hangmen Also Die! is a gripping and suspenseful thriller set in Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, this film is a masterclass in tension-building and storytelling.

The plot revolves around the assassination of a high-ranking Nazi official, and the subsequent manhunt for the perpetrators.

The film is filled with twists and turns, and keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The performances in Hangmen Also Die! are top-notch, particularly those of Brian Donlevy and Walter Brennan.

Donlevy plays a Czech resistance leader who is forced to go into hiding after the assassination, while Brennan plays an aging janitor who inadvertently becomes involved in the plot.

Lang’s direction is masterful, and he expertly builds suspense throughout the film.

The cinematography is also worth noting, with striking black-and-white visuals that add to the film’s ominous atmosphere.

 

Hangmen Also Die - WWII Suspense Classic, Produced & Directed By Fritz Lang, Uncut!
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Brian Donlevy, Walter Brennan, Anna Lee (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Fritz Lang (Writer) - Fritz Lang (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

18. Rancho Notorious (1952)     

Rancho Notorious is a gripping western noir that takes you on a journey of revenge and redemption.

The film follows Vern Haskell (Arthur Kennedy), a man seeking revenge for the murder of his fiancé.

His search leads him to the infamous Chuck-a-Luck, a ranch that harbors a secret criminal underworld.

Director Fritz Lang masterfully creates a sense of tension and unease throughout the film, using shadowy lighting and eerie music to heighten the suspense.

The performances of the cast are also top-notch, particularly Marlene Dietrich as the seductive ranch owner Altar Keane.

What makes Rancho Notorious stand out from other westerns is its exploration of themes such as the corrupting influence of revenge and the blurred lines between justice and vigilantism.

It’s a thought-provoking film that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

 

19. Woman in the Moon (1929)

“Woman in the Moon” is a captivating and visually stunning film that showcases the brilliance of Fritz Lang’s direction.

This silent masterpiece is a true testament to Lang’s ability to create a fully immersive cinematic experience, even without the use of sound.

The film centers around the journey of a group of scientists who embark on a mission to the moon in search of gold.

Along the way, they encounter a young woman who becomes an integral part of their adventure.

The film is a thrilling ride from start to finish, with stunning visuals and impressive special effects that still hold up even by modern standards.

Lang’s direction is nothing short of masterful, as he expertly crafts each shot to create a sense of wonder and awe.

The film’s pacing is perfect, with each scene building upon the last, leading to a thrilling and emotional climax.

 

Woman in the Moon
  • Gerda Maurus (Actor)
  • Fritz Lang (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

20. Moonfleet (1955)    

Moonfleet is an atmospheric and engaging adventure film that captures the essence of the classic pirate tale.

Directed by Fritz Lang and starring Stewart Granger and George Sanders, the film follows the story of an orphan boy named John Mohune who gets caught up in the world of smugglers and pirates in the 18th century.

The film’s strengths lie in its stunning visuals and impressive set designs, which transport the viewer to the rugged and treacherous coastline of Dorset, England.

The story is also well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience engaged throughout.

Granger and Sanders both deliver solid performances, with Granger especially shining as the charismatic and roguish smuggler Jeremy Fox.

However, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped and their motivations a bit unclear.

 

Moonfleet
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Ray Winstone, Aneurin Barnard, Sophie Cookson (Actors)
  • Andy De Emmony (Director) - J. Meade Falkner (Writer) - Dan McCulloch (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

21. While the City Sleeps (1956)

Fritz Lang’s noir thriller While the City Sleeps is a dark and suspenseful film that keeps you the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The story follows a group of journalists who are all vying for a promotion to the head of their news organization, but things take a deadly turn when a serial killer begins to target women in the city.

The cast is top-notch, with standout performances from Dana Andrews as the lead reporter, Vincent Price as the ruthless media mogul, and Ida Lupino as a cunning and seductive businesswoman.

The film also features some striking visuals, with Lang’s signature use of shadows and light creating a tense and eerie atmosphere.

While the City Sleeps is a gripping and thought-provoking film that explores the dangerous intersection of power, greed, and violence in the media industry.

 

While the City Sleeps (1956)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Dana Andrews, Rhonda Fleming, George Sanders (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Casey Robinson (Writer) - Bert E. Friedlob (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

22. Man Hunt (1941)

Man Hunt is a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Directed by Fritz Lang and starring Walter Pidgeon, the film tells the story of a British hunter who becomes the hunted when he attempts to assassinate Adolf Hitler.

The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the English countryside and tense moments captured in the dark alleyways of Berlin.

The score by Alfred Newman is haunting and perfectly complements the film’s intense atmosphere.

Walter Pidgeon delivers a standout performance as the determined hunter, while George Sanders is excellent as the suave but sinister Gestapo agent who pursues him.

The supporting cast is also top-notch, with standout performances from John Carradine and Roddy McDowall.

What sets Man Hunt apart from other WWII-era thrillers is its nuanced exploration of morality and the human cost of war.

The film’s climax is particularly powerful, with a stunning twist that left me reeling.

 

Man Hunt
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Walter Pidgeon, Joan Bennett (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Geoffrey Household (Writer) - Len Hammond (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

23. The Blue Gardenia (1953)    

“The Blue Gardenia” is a gripping film noir that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Directed by Fritz Lang, the movie follows the story of a young telephone operator named Norah, played brilliantly by Anne Baxter, who finds herself in a dangerous situation after a night out with friends.

The film’s cinematography is stunning, with Lang’s use of shadow and light creating a tense and eerie atmosphere.

The score, composed by the legendary RKO studio musician Leigh Harline, adds to the suspenseful mood of the film.

The performances by the cast are excellent, particularly Baxter’s portrayal of a woman caught up in a nightmare she can’t escape from.

The supporting cast, including Richard Conte and Raymond Burr, also deliver memorable performances.

The plot is well-crafted, with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The themes of power, control, and revenge are explored in a nuanced way that adds depth to the story.

 

The Blue Gardenia
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Anne Baxter, Richard Conte, Ann Sothern (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Charles Hoffman (Writer) - Alex Gottlieb (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

24. The 1,000 Eyes of Dr. Mabuse (1960)

The 1,000 Eyes of Dr. Mabuse is a classic noir thriller from the legendary director Fritz Lang.

This film is the final installment in Lang’s Mabuse trilogy, and it doesn’t disappoint.

The story follows a group of detectives as they investigate a series of crimes that seem to be the work of the infamous criminal mastermind Dr. Mabuse.

The film is beautifully shot, with Lang’s signature use of shadows and light creating a dark and moody atmosphere that perfectly captures the sense of danger and intrigue.

The performances are top-notch, with Gert Fröbe giving a particularly memorable turn as the sinister Dr. Mabuse.

The plot is complex and twisty, with plenty of surprises along the way.

The film also features some exciting action sequences, including a thrilling car chase that still holds up today.

 

25. Beyond a Reasonable Doubt (1956)

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt is a masterful film noir that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, this movie tells the story of a newspaper reporter who sets out to prove the flaws of the criminal justice system by framing himself for a murder he did not commit.

The film has a gripping plot that is expertly crafted, with twists and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The performances are top-notch, with Dana Andrews and Joan Fontaine delivering standout performances as the reporter and his love interest respectively.

But what sets Beyond a Reasonable Doubt apart is its exploration of the themes of justice and truth.

The film raises important questions about the flaws of the criminal justice system and the power of the media to shape public opinion.

 

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt (1956)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Dana Andrews, Joan Fontaine, Sidney Blackmer (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director) - Douglas Morrow (Writer) - Bert E. Friedlob (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

26. Secret Beyond the Door… (1947)

Secret Beyond the Door… is a thrilling and suspenseful film that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Directed by the legendary Fritz Lang, the film stars Joan Bennett as Celia, a wealthy woman who falls in love with a mysterious architect named Mark, played by Michael Redgrave.

The film is a classic example of film noir, with its moody lighting and shadowy cinematography. The story is gripping and filled with twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the very end.

The film also has a strong psychological element, with Celia questioning her own sanity as she delves deeper into the secrets of Mark’s past.

Joan Bennett delivers a fantastic performance as Celia, conveying both vulnerability and strength as she tries to unravel the mystery of Mark’s past.

Michael Redgrave is equally impressive as the enigmatic architect, bringing a sense of danger and intrigue to every scene he’s in.

 

Secreto Tras La Puerta (Secret Beyond The Door) 1947 Fritz Lang
  • Joan Bennett, Michael Redgrave (Actors)
  • Fritz Lang (Director)
  • Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)

27. The Return of Frank James (1940)

“The Return of Frank James” is a classic western film that delivers a thrilling and captivating narrative.

The movie follows the story of Frank James, played by the talented Henry Fonda, who is seeking revenge for his brother’s death.

Fonda’s performance in this film is truly outstanding, and he brings depth and emotion to his character.

The film’s cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the American West and immersing the viewer in the environment.

The action scenes are well-choreographed and intense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, with John Carradine and Gene Tierney standing out in particular.

The film’s soundtrack is another highlight, with the score adding an extra layer of mood and tension to the scenes.

The pacing is also well done, with the film balancing action and character development effectively.

 

Return of Frank James, The
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Henry Fonda, Gene Tierney, Jackie Cooper (Actors)
  • LangFritz (Director) - Sam Hellman (Writer) - Kenneth Macgowan (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

Best Fritz Lang Films – Wrapping Up

Fritz Lang was a German filmmaker, screenwriter and film producer.

He is often identified as one of the greatest stars in American cinema history. He was born in Austria-Hungary and moved to Germany in 1926.

Lang’s work was influenced by German expressionism, and he directed a number of classic films that have become standards for later generations.

 

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