The Last Laugh
Where to Watch The Last Laugh
The Last Laugh, a silent film hailing from 1924, is a poignant example of how cinema, despite language barriers and lack of spoken dialogue, can still evoke a powerful emotional response through its storytelling and visual implications. Directed by F. W. Murnau, this film gives life to an ageless tale of human pride, fear of societal decline, and the confrontation of one's inevitable aging, a narrative that continues to resonate with audiences almost a century later.
The Last Laugh has at its heart the story of an aging hotel doorman, portrayed by the talented Emil Jannings, who takes immense pride in his prestigious role. He is seen as the embodiment of dignity and authority, clad in a splendid uniform, adored and respected by his neighbors. To the doorman, his uniform is not just a part of his job, but a status symbol that places him in a position of honor within the society. His personal identity and self-worth are deeply intertwined with this position.
However, as the narrative unfolds, the doorkeeper begins to face challenges, primarily stemming from his increasing age and subsequent weakening physical abilities. The hotel management, concerned with the image they present to the public and guests, notably wrestle with whether they should allow him to continue in his current role. Accompanying these professional struggles are the silent man's personal conflicts, fueling an emotional rollercoaster that serves as the main focus of the movie.
The film co-stars actors Maly Delschaft and Max Hiller, whose performances add depth and richness to the storyline. Delschaft and Hiller play supporting roles that subtly underline the emotional tapestry of the narrative, reflecting and reacting to the doorkeeper's predicament.
F. W. Murnau, the director of The Last Laugh, is known for his masterful storytelling and inventive cinematic techniques. He has used these skills commendably in this film, using the moving camera technique to reflect the inner psychological state of the characters, particularly the doorman. The lack of dialogue necessitates the use of powerful visuals, allowing the camera movements and angles to speak volumes, essentially becoming a character in their own right. This groundbreaking technical proficiency is not only emblematic of its time but also serves to mark The Last Laugh as one of the pioneer films of the 1920s.
In addition, Murnau turns to expressionist techniques, creating a stylized atmosphere that enhances the emotional resonance of the movie. The imaginative use of lighting, shadows, and architectural elements build a world that accentuates the doorman's emotional journey.
Jannings' performance in The Last Laugh is truly remarkable. As one of the most acclaimed actors of the silent film era, he encapsulates the essence of his character with tremendous nuance, conveying an array of emotions through just facial expressions and physical movements. His portrayal of the doorman brings the audience on his emotional journey, allowing viewers to empathize deeply with his joy, pride, despair, and humiliation.
The uniqueness of The Last Laugh lies in its empathetic approach to an ordinary man’s life, delving into his personal journey sensitively. Murnau demonstrates that storytelling need not depend on elaborate dialogue, not to mention the use of the "ungraded script" method, wherein the plot was written almost collaboratively during production rather than beforehand.
Moreover, The Last Laugh is a social commentary on the value society places on youth, vigor, and appearance over experience and knowledge. It is a solemn meditation on human vanity and displays the poignant struggle of an individual against the ruthlessness of societal opinions and prejudices.
The film’s overarching message, accompanied by Murnau's precise direction, memorable performances by the lead and supporting actors, inventive cinematography, and evocative use of expressionistic elements make it a timeless classic. The Last Laugh is much more than a mere film; it is a visually compelling masterpiece that evocatively mirrors the human condition in all its complexity. The absence of traditional dialogues only elevates its universal appeal, making it a film that silently speaks to the hearts of viewers across generations.
The Last Laugh is a Drama movie released in 1924. It has a runtime of 101 min. Critics and viewers have rated it mostly positive reviews, with an IMDb score of 8.0..
How to Watch The Last Laugh
Where can I stream The Last Laugh movie online? The Last Laugh is available to watch and stream, buy on demand, download at Amazon Prime, Kanopy, Amazon. Some platforms allow you to rent The Last Laugh for a limited time or purchase the movie for downloading.