Monday, July 18, 2011

1930 - PEOPLE ON SUNDAY slice of life study of Berlin in 1929

Two couples hang out on a Sunday in Berlin.  This was filmed on location with non professional actors and a very small crew.  The film is noted for the participation of the behind the camera talent.  Billy Wilder wrote the screenplay, Robert Siodmak directed, Edgar G, Ulmer and Fred Zinneman also worked on the film. 


Probably the most important collaborator was the famous cinematographer Eugene Schuffian who had worked with notable directors such as Fritz Lang, Max Ophuls, Robert Rossen and Georges Franju to name a few.  People On Sunday looks very good. 


The film is a fascinating look at Berlin right before Hitler came to power.  Much of it has a strong documentary feel to it.  The film also has some interesting observations about male and female relationships probably due to the writer  Billy Wilder. 

People On Sunday has a lot of charm and holds up very well probably thanks to the talented group of people working behind the camera who wanted to make something a little more interesting than just another drama.

73 minutes written by Billy Wilder, Robert Siodmak and Curt Siodmak. 

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