The Lost Angel
The Lost Angel

Movie spotlight

The Lost Angel

1971
Movie
57 min
German

August 24, 1937: a day in the life of expressionist sculptor and author Ernst Barlach (Fred Düren). Barlach lives in the small town of Güstrow, keeping to himself and wanting to steer clear of politics. On this day he learns that the Nazis have dragged his famous 1927 sculpture The Hovering Angel out of the Güstrow Cathedral. Barlach begins to reflect on his life of “inner emigration” and on his work.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users78%
Director: Sidney LumetGenres: Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

A retired judge, Arthur Conrad, is determined to uncover the truth behind the apparent suicide of his son, a brilliant but troubled artist. As he delves into his son's life, he uncovers a complex web of relationships, artistic rivalries, and potentially illicit dealings that suggest a darker, more sinister motive behind his son's untimely death. The investigation forces the judge to confront uncomfortable truths about his own family and the society he once presided over.

Critical Reception

The Lost Angel received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised Henry Fonda's powerful performance as the determined father and Elizabeth Taylor's nuanced portrayal of his estranged daughter-in-law. The film's exploration of complex family dynamics and moral ambiguity was also highlighted, though some found the pacing to be deliberate.

What Reviewers Say

  • A compelling character study anchored by strong performances.

  • Explores dark themes of family and deception with mature insight.

  • Some critics noted a slow burn pacing but appreciated the emotional depth.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's dramatic tension and the performances of its lead actors, finding it to be a thought-provoking drama. Some viewers felt the plot became overly convoluted in its latter half.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 1 Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Henry Fonda).

Fun Fact

Elizabeth Taylor's casting in the film was seen as a bold choice, as she typically starred in more glamorous roles, and her performance in 'The Lost Angel' showcased a different, more dramatic range.

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