Scream Bloody Entertainment

You must become Caligari.

A German village is terrorised by a series of murders that seem to be connected with the recent arrival of a man by the name of Dr. Caligari.

- classic Expressionist cinema at its finest
- visually unique and astounding
- unnerving atmosphere
- outstanding set and costume design
- Werner Krauss's captivating performance
- well-integrated twist
- boasts an original and memorable look

- acting feels slightly over the top
- the storyline could have used a little polishing in some places

- low violence and gore
- moderate high scares and frightening scenes
- low nudity and sexual themes
- low profanity

- don't piss off Dr. Caligari
- sleepwalking is a dangerous habit
- dummies can be terribly deceiving

As a landmark of both Expressionist cinema and the genre of horror, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is an uncontested classic, boasting a remarkably original visual look, superb set design, and a striking performance by Werner Krauss in the role of the antagonist. There are a few shortcomings, particularly in the storytelling department, but most, if not all, pale in comparison to what the film ultimately achieves. While its scare factor is mostly lost on today's audience, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari remains to this day as atmospheric and unnerving as it was on its date of release, almost a hundred years ago.

horror meter: 5 somnambulistic stars (out of 5)