Dishonored is a deeply seductive film and a new personal favorite of mine from Josef von Sternberg. The narrative is a mostly straightforward spy thriller with all the intrigue, lies, and charm that one comes to expect from the genre. But there’s an almost enthralling flair to the direction that makes it stand out from the crowd.
First of all, Marlene Dietrich’s performance really sells the film. Her presence is deeply captivating through the tough shell forged by her insignificant life. The glimmers we see of her true self are only shown through Dietrich’s slight facial expressions, subtle movements, and passion for music.
Dishonered is a testament to great use of sound and music in the early days of sound films. But above all, the ingenuity of Sternberg behind the camera is largely what makes the film truly special. The precise editing, stark lighting, and usage of cross-dissolves gives the film an almost rhythmic control of the viewer.
I didn’t expect to love this film so much, but I was utterly engulfed from start till finish. And that ending might be one of the best I’ve seen in a while.
Dishonored is a deeply seductive film and a new personal favorite of mine from Josef von Sternberg. The narrative is a mostly straightforward spy thriller with all the intrigue, lies, and charm that one comes to expect from the genre. But there’s an almost enthralling flair to the direction that makes it stand out from the crowd.
First of all, Marlene Dietrich’s performance really sells the film. Her presence is deeply captivating through the tough shell forged by her insignificant life. The glimmers we see of her true self are only shown through Dietrich’s slight facial expressions, subtle movements, and passion for music.
Dishonered is a testament to great use of sound and music in the early days of sound films. But above all, the ingenuity of Sternberg behind the camera is largely what makes the film truly special. The precise editing, stark lighting, and usage of cross-dissolves gives the film an almost rhythmic control of the viewer.
I didn’t expect to love this film so much, but I was utterly engulfed from start till finish. And that ending might be one of the best I’ve seen in a while.
