Lebende Ware
Lebende Ware

Movie spotlight

Lebende Ware

1929
Movie
84 min
German

Insights

Director: Leopold JessnerGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In a fictionalized account of the famous case of serial killer Peter Kürten, the film follows the life and crimes of a man who confesses to numerous murders. The narrative delves into his troubled past and the psychological factors that may have contributed to his violent actions, posing questions about the nature of evil and societal responsibility.

Critical Reception

As a silent film from the era, detailed critical reception is scarce. However, 'Lebende Ware' is recognized for its early exploration of dark psychological themes and its notable cast. It is considered a significant, albeit grim, contribution to German cinema of the late Weimar period.

What Reviewers Say

  • A stark and unsettling portrayal of a serial killer's psyche.

  • Notable for its ambition in tackling disturbing subject matter for its time.

  • Features strong performances from its lead actors.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this silent film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the real-life crimes of Peter Kürten, the "Düsseldorf Vampire," who terrorized the Rhineland in the 1920s.

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