#529: STERNBERG, Josef von: Underworld (1927)

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3 SILENT CLASSICS BY JOSEF VON STERNBERG {Spine #528} OOP

STERNBERG, Josef von (United States)
Underworld [1927]
Spine #529
DVD


Josef von Sternberg's riveting breakthrough is widely considered the film that launched the American gangster genre as we know it. George Bancroft plays heavy Bull Weed, a criminal kingpin whose jealous devotion to his moll, Feathers (Evelyn Brent), gets him into hot water with a rival hood and, ultimately, the authorities. Further complicating matters is the attraction that blossoms between Feathers and an alcoholic former lawyer (Clive Brook). With its supple, endlessly expressive camera work and tightly wound screenplay based on a story by legendary scribe Ben Hecht (who won an Oscar for it the first year the awards were given), Underworld solidified von Sternberg's place as one of Hollywood's most exciting new talents.

81 minutes
Black & White
Silent
1:33:1 aspect ratio
Criterion Release 2010
Director/Writers


Story by Ben Hecht.
Adaptation by Charles Furthmann.

Film Rating (0-60):

60

The Extras

The Booklet

See Spine #528.

Commentary

None.
Two scores

One by Robert Israel and another by Alloy Orchestra.
Documentary 1

Documentary 2

Documentary 3

Controversial altered ending

Theatrical trailer

Extras Rating (0-40):

39

60 + 39 =

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