German Expressionism - Dr Caligari

Scene from the cabinet of Dr Caligari

This film was created in the 1920's during the great depression colour film was around so directors had to make the best use of light and dark. In this time films the scenes often depicted the emotions that they characters felt normally chaotic. There is strong contrast of light and dark and often sets would paint on fake light sources and exaggerated shadows to emphasize the mood.