We haven't been going out much lately, but last Wednesday the weather seemed fine enough to brave the outdoor cinema. The Kino is in Volkspark Friedrichshain, a large park near us. It has quite a big amphitheatre, and you can choose between lying on the grass, sitting on park benches, or sitting at little tables (with candles on them for the complete cabaret atmosphere).
It seemed very appropriate to watch the classic silent film
Just like noticing how many cliches Shakespeare used in his play, this is one of those films that seem familiar from the number of references that other films make to it.
The basic story is that the pampered inhabitants of the 'City of the Sun' are supported by the toiling masses of workers from the WorkerCity underground. The son of the engineer/ruler of the upper city catches sight of a girl from the lower class, falls in love (of course), follows her underground, and is horrified by the conditions below. Industrial accidents, mad scientists, evil robots acting as agent provocateurs, night clubs, dancing Grim Reapers, everything exploding and diverse high jinks follow, up to a festive witchburning and the mad scientist schlepping the girl up to the roof.
Everyone well here, Brendan has been hard at work on his thesis, and I am pleased because I got a paper accepted to a journal.
Much love to you,
Julie.
