May 12 (Sat) 19:30-20:45 The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari

June 3 (Sun) 15:30-20:00 Dr. Mabuse the Gambler

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari

Director: Robert Wiene

Year: 1920

Duration: 67 minutes

Country: Germany

Language: Silent with Chinese and English subtitles

Synopsis: Francis and his friend Alan encounter Dr. Caligari at his show in a town fair in Germany. Proclaimed hypnotist Caligari opens a box to reveal his clairvoyant somnambulist Cesare. Cesare then predicts Alan’s death, and by morning his chilling prophecy has come true—making Cesare the prime suspect. Is Cesare guilty, or is it actually the doctor pulling the strings? Quintessential German Expressionist film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari explores the theme of irrational and sadistic authoritarianism, and continues to play a major influence on horror and noir films.

Dr. Mabuse the Gambler

Director: Fritz Lang

Year: 1922

Genre: Suspense/Thriller/Crime

Country: Germany

Duration: 297 minutes

Synopsis: The original German title, Dr. Mabuse der Spieler, makes use of three meanings of the word “Der Spieler,” which can mean gambler, puppeteer, or actor. In the film psychologist Dr. Mabuse, is a notorious gambler, manipulator, and master of disguise, seeking to gain a fortune and run Berlin.

Sound Sculpture

Established in 2012, Sound Sculpture is interested in exploring the possibilities for improvised ambient music. During their performances, Sound Sculpture’s four members meld their distinct styles to create cohesive pieces that oscillate between ambient and psychedelic music. In recent years they have expanded their performance venues by playing in a number of galleries and other art spaces, and doing live accompaniments to silent films and dance performances. The group includes Fenni (China) as vocalist, Layer (Italy) on synthesizer, and Nico (Italy) and Yan Zeng (China) on base and drums.