The best of Fritz Lang: Five films every movie fan should watch

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Fritz Lang, one of the most influential filmmakers of the 20th century, was a master of visual storytelling and thematic depth. Born in Austria in 1890, Lang initially studied architecture and art, but his career pivoted dramatically after he discovered a love for cinema. His distinctive visual style, sharp social commentary, and unparalleled skill in creating suspenseful atmospheres set him apart. From his early, ground-breaking silent films in Germany to his later work in Hollywood, Lang's films tackled themes of morality, justice, power, and the human psyche.

Today we would like to explore his top five films, ranked from fifth to first, to celebrate this visionary director's remarkable work. So let's not waste any more time. Here's what we consider to be the best of Fritz Lang.

5. Fury (1936)

Fury follows the story of Joe Wilson (Spencer Tracy), an innocent man wrongfully accused of a crime and nearly lynched by a mob. When he survives the attack, Joe seeks revenge on those who tried to kill him.

In Fury, Lang presents a scathing critique of mob mentality and the miscarriage of justice. The film explores the dangers of vigilante retribution and the thin line between victim and perpetrator. Through Joe's descent into vengeance, Lang examines how hatred and anger can corrupt even the innocent. Fury was Lang's first American film and immediately established his reputation in Hollywood, showing his ability to handle complex social themes with nuance. The film's moral ambiguity and powerful performances make it a standout exploration of justice, revenge, and human nature.

4. Scarlet Street (1945)

In Scarlet Street, Edward G. Robinson plays Christopher Cross, a meek bank clerk and amateur painter who becomes infatuated with a femme fatale, Kitty March (Joan Bennett). Manipulated by Kitty and her boyfriend, Cross is driven to a path of desperation, culminating in a dark and tragic ending.

Scarlet Street is an exemplary piece of American film noir, dripping with Lang's characteristic cynicism and bleak view of human nature. The film tackles themes of unrequited love, obsession, and exploitation, highlighting how destructive infatuation can become. With its devastating conclusion, Scarlet Street paints a picture of a world where hope and redemption are illusory. Lang masterfully crafts an atmosphere of dread and tragedy, making this one of his most emotionally powerful films.

3. The Big Heat (1953)

The Big Heat follows detective Dave Bannion (Glenn Ford), who investigates the murder of a fellow officer and uncovers a web of corruption that reaches powerful figures in his city. Bannion's relentless pursuit of justice leads to dangerous consequences for him and those close to him.

The Big Heat stands as a quintessential film noir, brimming with the hallmarks of the genre: moral ambiguity, gritty urban landscapes, and a protagonist facing ethical dilemmas. Lang uses Bannion's character to explore themes of justice, corruption, and revenge, questioning the effectiveness and morality of a justice system tainted by power. The film's portrayal of violence—particularly the unforgettable scene involving Gloria Grahame's character—is shockingly raw and uncompromising. Lang's direction makes this story of corruption a profound commentary on power and moral decay.

2. M (1931)

M centres on a city in terror due to a child murderer (played hauntingly by Peter Lorre) whose crimes have sparked both police and criminal underworld efforts to bring him to justice. The film follows the tense pursuit and eventual trial of the murderer, blending horror, suspense, and social commentary.

M is a landmark film that transcends genres, blending crime, horror, and drama with a sophisticated psychological portrait of guilt and justice. Lang's portrayal of the child killer—both as a monster and a tormented soul—forces the audience to confront uncomfortable truths about humanity and justice. The film explores the complex intersections of law, morality, and vigilantism, raising questions about who has the right to administer justice. M also stands out for its innovative use of sound, using silence and auditory cues to build tension. This film remains a classic, one of Lang's finest achievements, and a masterpiece of psychological cinema.

1. Metropolis (1927)

Set in a dystopian future, Metropolis tells the story of Freder, the son of a powerful industrialist, who discovers the harsh conditions endured by the working class. He joins forces with a young woman named Maria to bring about change, but they face resistance from the elite and the creation of a sinister robot duplicate.

Metropolis is an epic meditation on the divide between the ruling elite and the working class, touching on themes of industrialization, sacrifice, and social justice. Lang's vision of a futuristic city is both awe-inspiring and terrifying, reflecting the anxieties of the time about the rise of technology and unchecked power. The film's iconic visuals—such as the towering cityscapes, the robot Maria, and the massive underground machines—have influenced countless sci-fi films. Metropolis is often hailed as one of the most influential silent films ever made, and its message about the need for unity between heart and mind remains relevant today. As Lang's most ambitious and visually stunning work, it's a masterpiece that cemented his legacy in cinema.

And that's all for today! Fritz Lang's films transcend mere entertainment, challenging audiences to grapple with moral dilemmas and the darker facets of humanity. His work spans genres, continents, and film techniques, with each film offering a unique perspective on societal issues. From the silent dystopian future of Metropolis to the gritty noir of The Big Heat, Lang's films continue to influence and inspire. His explorations of justice, power, and human nature remain as relevant and haunting as ever, marking him as one of cinema's true visionaries.

Now we would love to hear about your experiences with Fritz Lang's work! Which of his films do you consider the best? Would you rearrange the list or add any others? We can't wait to read your thoughts in the comments!