The Retro-Future Film Series will present Fritz Lang's Metropolis at the Backlot: A Place for Film, on Monday at Heritage House.
Review for Metropolis:
Director Fritz Lang's Metropolis tells the story of a futuristic city sharply divided between the working class who lives deep underground and the city planners high above, living in wealth and luxury.
Everything changes, though, when the son of the city's mastermind falls in love with a working class prophet who predicts the coming of a savior who might mediate their differences.
It is almost impossible to overstate the influence of this classic film -- released as something of a mere cinema curio to a bemused public on March 13, 1927.
You'll watch Metropolis and instantly recognize where so many tropes of more recent sci-fi films have drawn their ideas from -- you'll see the origins of Star Wars'' C-3PO; Dr. Emmett Brown (of Back to the Future fame) in the personage of the evil mad scientist Rotwang; and the skylines of 1984's Blade Runner.
An absolutely breathtaking film which was two years in production, Metropolis required an enormous creative effort for its time, necessitating massive sets, nearly 37,000 extras, and hundreds of innovative special effects.
The Backlot: A Place for Film was started in 2013 as an informal mixer designed to connect filmmakers, talent, and crew. Typical activities at The Backlot include featured speakers from the motion picture industry, casting calls, and screenings of recently produced films.
During the summer production season (from May - September) essential 'film study' classics (such as this month's offering, Metropolis), are screened.
Anyone at any level of expertise who has an interest in learning more about what goes on behind, or in-front-of, the camera is welcome at 'The Backlot'. For those wishing to "dive right in" there are also frequent opportunities to get involved with student films, web series episodes, and even features.
The Backlot takes place every third Monday of the month (weather and national holidays permitting) and doors open at 6 p.m. Presentations begin at 7 p.m. and are followed by a Q&A and usually run an hour and a half or so.
Relationship-building time is made available both before and after the main event, so attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and/or head shots (in the case of talent) with which to exchange information for future collaboration opportunities.
Admission is free. A simple potluck dish, side, or dessert is suggested.
Metropolis