Step into the dazzling, dystopian world of "Metropolis," where the future is a battleground of heart and machine. Once lost to time, this visionary masterpiece by Thea von Harbou is now reborn, meticulously restored and republished by Alpha Editions. For decades, "Metropolis" was out of print, but today it stands as a collector's item and a cultural treasure, ready to captivate a new generation of readers. In a city divided by wealth and power, where the elite live in luxury above and the workers toil below, one man's journey to bridge the chasm between these worlds unfolds. This timeless tale of love, rebellion, and redemption explores the eternal struggle between human emotion and technological advancement. With its hauntingly prophetic themes and vivid storytelling, "Metropolis" remains as relevant today as when it first captured imaginations. Whether you're a casual reader or a classic literature aficionado, this edition offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of literary history. Immerse yourself in a narrative that challenges the boundaries of society and the human spirit. Rediscover "Metropolis" a story that continues to inspire and provoke thought across generations.
I was always fascinated by the movie "Metropolis" (1927, Fritz Lang). I followed the movie from the recovered fragments to the almost complete version with the added footage from Argentina. Then it dawned on me that the movie was probably adapted from a story. Looking at the credits, I found this story, "Metropolis" by Thea von Harbou (1888-1954). I had no idea that Thea Gabriele von Harbou was part of 77 great movie titles, including "M" and "Siegfried".
You might find Thea's (second wife of Fritz Lang) writing style quite interesting, not quite modern, but clear. She repeats herself quite often, sort of in the style of the Bible.
As with many movies at that time, the story in the description stuck a lot closer to the book than they do nowadays. Today's movies should say inspired instead of adapted from. Reading the book, you could see the movie almost blow-by-blow.
However, with a few strategic modifications here and there, the book and movie deviate greatly in their purpose and delivery. While the movie was about the class struggle between what was called the hands and the head, with a mediator, the heart. The book was more of a personal struggle for man's soul and redemption.
Of course, the book had the freedom to take more time than the movie to describe actions and actors. Also, of course, there were a lot of scenes that would have to be cut out for the movie. But of those who left him, they were quite accurate. Whether you liked or didn't like the movie, you cannot afford to overlook this book. There are a lot of shocks and surprises awaiting you. And there is always time enough for love.
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