Movie spotlight
Barrabas
Rudolph Strelitz, known as 'Barrabas', is the leader of a brutal underground gang causing chaos and destruction in the lives of civilized people. A lawyer, Claude Varèse, is strongly determined to bring Strelitz to justice for the purpose of revenge, after his father was unjustly guillotined for the murder of Laure d'Hérigny, the mistress of an American millionaire. Later, the sister of Claude Varèse, Françoise, is kidnapped by Dr Lucius, one of the henchmen of Barrabas. Serialised over 12 chapters.
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Plot Summary
Barrabas, a cunning criminal mastermind, orchestrates a series of elaborate heists and betrayals across Paris. As he builds his criminal empire, he becomes entangled with a detective determined to bring him to justice and a mysterious woman who may hold the key to his past. The film follows his desperate attempts to evade capture and maintain control of his illicit operations.
Critical Reception
As an early silent film from a prolific director, "Barrabas" is primarily of historical interest to film scholars and enthusiasts of silent cinema. Its reception at the time would have been within the context of popular serial films of the era, often appreciated for their suspense and melodrama.
What Reviewers Say
A pioneering example of the crime serial genre.
Showcases Louis Feuillade's distinctive visual style and narrative pacing.
Offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century Parisian underworld narratives.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for "Barrabas (1919)" is not available due to the film's age and the lack of widespread digital archiving and public commentary platforms during its release.
Fun Fact
Louis Feuillade was incredibly prolific, and "Barrabas" was part of a series of crime films he made, including the highly influential "Fantômas" and "Les Vampires".
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