The Doll

The Doll is a charming silent film from 1919, directed by German filmmaker Ernst Lubitsch. The film is inspired by "The Sandman", the eerie short story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, as well as Hoffmann's opera "The Tales of Hoffmann"; however, Lubitsch presents these inspirations with an effervescent comedic touch that emits lightness and humor. The narrative centers on the romantic and comedic escapades of the main characters, played by Ossi Oswalda, Hermann Thimig, and Victor Janson.

In the film, Oswalda steals the show with her performance as a lifelike mechanical doll. Her ability to combine physical comedy and grace is remarkable, making her character both endearing and entertaining. She portrays the doll with an uncanny mix of artificial movements and human affections that adds a layer of surreal comedy to the plot.

Victor Janson portrays Hilarius, the Dollmaker of the story. His character is pivotal to presenting the film's core question - can life and love be fabricated? His fascination for creating life-like dolls delves into unique themes like the idea of automatons and the ancient desire of mankind to create artificial life. It blurs the line between the artificial and the real, truth and pretense, which proves interesting as the narrative unfolds.

Hermann Thimig plays Lancelot, the young man who is at the center of the narrative’s comedic chaos. Meek and easily manipulated, Lancelot is the central figure in the plot. Solely concerned with getting married to escape his Uncle's persistent nagging, Lancelot finds himself, by a combination of circumstances and persuasive individuals, engaged to the life-size doll.

What is noteworthy in The Doll is Lubitsch’s technique. The film is considered early work of the influential director, and it already showcases the embryonic instances of what later came to be known as 'The Lubitsch Touch' - his unique stylistic and storytelling knack. Lubitsch develops an inventive use of space in The Doll, often using depth within his frame to enhance the humor. The use of miniatures and oversized props helps to create an enchanting, surreal atmosphere that mirrors the theme of the film.

The sets of The Doll, designed by the noted German architect Kurt Richter, deserve special mention. They effectively contribute to the film's particular blend of realism and fantasy. Between the large mechanical dolls to the wind-up carriages, the sets are masterful backdrops for the slapstick humor and romantic complications. They don’t just provide a base for the characters but form an integral part of the narrative itself.

The visual comedy in the film is inspired by the more traditional slapstick but executed with a certain European and theatrical charm. Physical humor plays a crucial role, enhancing the film's comedic moments. It often aids the plot rather than just being there for generating laughs.

The film also deviates from a straightforward narrative with many detours that often satirize various social conventions and norms of the time, capturing the German society of the late 1910s. The influence of classic German satire can be detected throughout the film, adding to its considerable charm and sophistication.

The dramatic irony is another ingredient Lubitsch uses with gusto. For the most part, the audience knows more than the protagonist, and this creates a delightful tension. The viewers are kept engaged, curious about when and how Lancelot will discover the truth.

Beautifully shot and masterfully directed, The Doll serves as a timeless example of silent cinema's potential to tell engaging stories with charm, wit, and a keen eye for detail. It is a film that owes its success chiefly to the exceptional performances of its lead actors and the creative genius of Lubitsch. His early foray into themes such as artificial intelligence and artificial love, long before these became common tropes in cinema, makes The Doll a fascinating viewing experience that captivates audiences with its perfect blend of comedy, romance, and fantasy in a fairy tale setting.

In conclusion, The Doll is a delightful voyage into early 20th-century cinematic storytelling and a must-watch for fans of classic cinema. It is a creative exploration of fascinating themes that resonate even after a century of its release. Its ingenious comedic treatment and captivating performances make it an enduring piece of cinema that charms audiences across generations.