The Blue Angel

The Blue Angel

Year: 1930

Runtime: 124 min

Language: German

Director: Josef von Sternberg

DramaMusical

In the smoky cabarets of Berlin, a repressed educator's world is turned upside down by the enigmatic Lola Lola. When Immanuel Rath's obsession with the sultry performer consumes him, he abandons his duty to marry her, only to discover that their domestic life is a battleground where desire and reality collide.

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Timeline & Setting – The Blue Angel (1930)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Blue Angel (1930). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Early 20th Century

The early 20th century is marked by changing social norms and the emergence of new artistic movements. This period often celebrated the bohemian lifestyle and challenged traditional values, with cabarets like The Blue Angel becoming centers for cultural expression. The struggles faced by Professor Rath reflect the transitional nature of society during this time.

Location

The Blue Angel, Professor Rath's school, Hometown

The Blue Angel is a cabaret that serves as the stage for Lola's captivating performances, symbolizing allure and temptation. Professor Rath's school represents a former life of academia and respect that he seeks to preserve. His hometown evokes memories of pride and authority but ultimately becomes a backdrop for his humiliation and downfall.

🏙️ City 🎭 Cabaret 🎓 School

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Main Characters – The Blue Angel (1930)
Meet the key characters of The Blue Angel (1930), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Professor Immanuel Rath

Professor Immanuel Rath is a dedicated educator whose life spirals out of control after becoming infatuated with Lola. Initially portrayed as authoritative and disciplined, his character gradually loses his sense of self as he is drawn deeper into Lola's intoxicating world. His internal struggles embody themes of identity and heartbreak, ultimately leading to his tragic downfall.

👨‍🏫 Professor 😔 Tragic Hero 💔 Inamorato

Lola

Lola, played by Marlene Dietrich, is a seductive cabaret performer whose charm entraps Professor Rath. Her character embodies themes of desire and illusion, as she effortlessly captivates those around her. Though seemingly playful, Lola's motives are complex, revealing layers of ambition and manipulation as she navigates relationships.

🎤 Performer 💃 Enchantress 🎭 Manipulative

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

Major Themes – The Blue Angel (1930)
Explore the central themes of The Blue Angel (1930), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Heartbreak

Heartbreak is central to the narrative as Professor Rath experiences profound emotional distress due to his obsession with Lola. This theme emphasizes the dangers of desire and the consequences of surrendering to passion. It illustrates how love can lead to both euphoria and tragedy, reflecting the complexity of human relationships.

🎭 Identity

The struggle for identity plays a significant role in the film as Professor Rath grapples with his transformation from respected educator to a mere performer. This theme highlights the fear of losing oneself amidst love and societal expectations. The professor's breakdown reinforces the idea that identity is fragile and can be overshadowed by external influences.

😢 Jealousy

Jealousy permeates Professor Rath's relationship with Lola, illustrating how his feelings lead to his ultimate downfall. This theme shows the destructive power of envy, as Rath confronts his inability to possess Lola fully. It serves as a poignant reminder of how jealousy can distort love and drive individuals to despair.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:30

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