This movie gave us a hint at Lang's breadth of interests. It's a re-telling of Madame Butterfly. Lang has a sure hand as a director, that much is clear. It is a well-composed story, crisply told. Some of the acting is a bit hammy. The use of real props and authentic sets is impressive, particularly considering how much less integrated the world was in 1919.
The story is a moving one and Lang directs it well. Girl meets foreign boy, they have a child and he promises to be back. Things don't end well. All that said, it's worth checking out for fans of Lang, fans of Madame Butterfly, or perhaps those interested in Japanese cultural artifacts. Lang's attention to detail and willingness to sweat the small stuff is beneficial as regards his movie making.
The story is a moving one and Lang directs it well. Girl meets foreign boy, they have a child and he promises to be back. Things don't end well. All that said, it's worth checking out for fans of Lang, fans of Madame Butterfly, or perhaps those interested in Japanese cultural artifacts. Lang's attention to detail and willingness to sweat the small stuff is beneficial as regards his movie making.