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Josef von Sternberg’s pre-code gangster picture ‘Underworld’

Underworld Directed by Josef von Sternberg United States, 1927 Josef von Sternberg’s pre-code gangster picture – the one that started it all – plays akin to the director’s vision throughout his career: hazy deep focus shots, sensuality that anticipates his collaborations with Marlene Dietrich, tough guy theatrics, and an eye for poetic framing.  Though its …

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The Shanghai Gesture

The Shanghai Gesture (1941) Directed by Josef von Sterberg The unabashed and almost flippant garishness of The Shanghai Gesture is what draws one in immediately. A dress isn’t just a dress, it is a lavish gown hung elegantly on the shoulders of Gene Tierney. A light bulb isn’t just a light bulb, it is one …

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