Sumurun

Sumurun is a silent film dated back to 1920, helmed by the prolific German director Ernst Lubitsch. Famous for his flair in the genre of comedy and his aptitude for featuring subtle sexual innuendos in this era of filmmaking, Lubitsch distinguished himself from his contemporaries with his innovative direction. In Sumurun, Lubitsch showcases his artistic genius in a new light, venturing into the realm of epic drama and romance.

Set in a fictitious Arabian city, Sumurun boasts a resplendent backdrop of exuberant sets, costumes, and exotic locales that lay bare the depth of Lubitsch's visionary direction. The aesthetics of the film transport the viewers to an epoch and a civilization brimming with vibrance and intrigue.

The protagonist of the film is an alluring dancer, Sumurun, depicted by the acclaimed Polish actress Pola Negri. Negri, famous for her portrayal of exotic and enigmatic characters, delivers a brave and captivating performance as Sumurun. Her enticing yet melancholic persona forms the heart of the narrative.

Sumurun captures the tumultuous journey of its titular character, unfolding a tale of passion, seduction, and betrayal. The story incorporates diverse elements, from royal politics, forbidden love affairs to tragic sacrifices. It delves into the complex human relationships in a society rigid with convention and brimming with the drama of everyday life.

The narrative places Sumurun in an opulent harem filled with romance, rivalry, and conspiracy. Her dynamic journey intertwines with six other characters who all become integral parts of the central storyline. Lubitsch himself plays a whimsical hunchbacked merchant with comic elements, while the influential German actor Paul Wegener embodies the intimidating yet not invincible tyrant sheikh.

Lubitsch's craft is evident in the narrative construct – the interlacing tale of Seven Adventures – a peculiar format that was unseen in that era. This form permits a plethora of humor, drama, and emotions, carried by an ensemble cast showcasing versatile performances. The narrative neither depends on one hero nor one villain; instead, it reveals the dichotomy of characters like Sumurun, who is both the seductress and the innocent, and the sheikh, who oscillates between power and vulnerability.

While the film remains silent, Lubitsch's dramatic brilliance transcends the barrier of spoken words. The film's emotionality is carried through exceptional performance, symbolic expression, and effective use of mise-en-scène. Sumurun reflects Lubitsch's sensitivity towards the finer nuances that enrich each frame, setting this film apart from contemporary silent cinema.

Despite being a silent film, Sumurun does not fall short in employing music as an essential storytelling element. The melodies adapted in the film serve as the unseen narrator, evoking appropriate emotions among the audience and enhancing the narrative. It’s the perfect blend of visuals and music, and demonstrates Lubitsch's grandiose cinematic vision for this film.

Sumurun embraces the contrasting sides of passion and power, innocence and guilt to narrate a compelling story that stands the test of time. It's not just a film, but a testament to Lubitsch's forward-thinking approach that changed the paradigm of 1920s cinema. With its versatile cast, including the charming and enigmatic Pola Negri and the intense Paul Wegener, the film tells a tale that reverberates with excitement, suspense, humor, and heartbreak.

Despite being a century-old movie, Sumurun continues to demand appreciation for its ambitious storytelling and technical finesse. This film has arguably helped Lubitsch carve a place for himself in the annals of filmmaking history. Sumurun is an indispensable watch for cinema enthusiasts who wish to explore the brilliance of early 20th-century filmmaking and appreciate the imaginative vision of Ernst Lubitsch.