41 Films Directed by Fritz Lang
41 titles
- 1
The Tiger of EschnapurMovie · 1959 · 101m · Adventure, Drama, RomanceA German architect in Eschnapur becomes entangled in the world of royal politics and romantic longing. He gains the Maharajah's favor by saving the life of the Maharajah's favorite temple dancer, leading to an unexpected friendship. As the architect and dancer fall in love, they unknowingly challenge the Maharajah's authority, forcing them to choose between their loyalty to each other and their position within the court. The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and tradition set against the vibrant backdrop of an Indian kingdom.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 2
Man HuntMovie · 1941 · 105m · Thriller, WarIn pre-war Bavaria, renowned British big-game hunter Thorndike unexpectedly encounters a prominent political figure. After narrowly escaping Nazi capture and death, Thorndike returns to London, where he faces relentless pursuit and finds an unlikely ally in a young woman who becomes essential to his survival. This gripping historical story explores espionage and personal challenges in wartime Britain, highlighting resilience and the lengths people will go to avoid danger. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive and Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation in 2000, this film offers a distinctive view of the conflict's early days through the eyes of an unlikely hero.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 3
Cloak and DaggerMovie · 1946 · 106m · Drama, Thriller, WarIn World War II, a brilliant atomic scientist is captured by the Nazis. The Office of Strategic Services (OSS) dispatches Professor Alessandro Bianchi on a secret mission to find him within Italy's resistance. The fate of war technology depends on it.
Bianchi joins forces with courageous Italian partisans who risk everything to fight the Nazi occupation. This unlikely partnership reveals a story of bravery, intelligence, and determination as they race to free the scientist from his captors.
The film explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and resilience, set against a realistic depiction of wartime Italy. It highlights the desperation and fear of the era, as well as the strength found in ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 4
MoonfleetMovie · 1955 · 87m · Adventure, Drama, History"Moonfleet," set in 18th-century Dorset, follows young orphan John Mohune as he arrives in the village and is taken in by Jeremy Fox, an old friend of his mother's. Fox appears to be a refined gentleman, but is secretly involved with smugglers and pirates. John becomes drawn into this dangerous world, navigating a complex web of relationships. Against the backdrop of historical England, the story explores themes of loyalty and betrayal, and the repercussions of choices made in a society where right and wrong are not always clear.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 5
Die Nibelungen: Kriemhild's RevengeMovie · 1924 · 129m · Adventure, Drama, FantasyThis historical drama follows Kriemhild as she pursues vengeance through a network of political alliances and betrayals. She marries Etzel, the Hunnic king, and arranges a visit for King Gunther and his court to her new kingdom, concealing her plan to finally reach her target.
The film captures the atmosphere of political maneuvering, with Kriemhild masking her intentions while projecting authority. As old conflicts resurface and new partnerships form, she faces the repercussions of her choices in a world defined by loyalty and deceit. The story examines revenge, power, and the possibility of redemption, set against the backdrop of a kingdom poised for war.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 6
American Guerrilla in the PhilippinesMovie · 1950 · 105mFollowing the Japanese invasion, American soldiers find themselves stranded in the Philippines and organize into guerrilla groups to resist. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation in 2001.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.4 - 7
Die Nibelungen: SiegfriedMovie · 1924 · 148m · Adventure, Drama, FantasyIn medieval Europe, the son of a powerful king begins a journey filled with both honor and political maneuvering. Siegfried, heir to the throne of Xanten, travels to Worms, the capital ruled by King Gunther. His goals are to win King Gunther's beautiful sister, Kriemhild, and to secure a marriage alliance between their kingdoms. The trip presents him with many difficulties as he deals with diplomacy, tradition, and the weight of his family's legacy. Set against the backdrop of medieval Europe, the story examines loyalty, love, and sacrifice, offering a compelling look at life in that era.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7 - 8
MetropolisMovie · 1927 · 148m · Drama, Science FictionThe city of tomorrow is sharply divided: one side thrives in wealth, the other lives in poverty. Our main character comes from a family that has long influenced this city’s history, but he doesn't know what his own future holds. His life changes when he meets a prophet who foretells the coming of a savior to unite the city's warring factions. As the son wrestles with this prophecy and the weight of responsibility it carries, he must navigate the city’s deep divisions while trying to understand his part in shaping its destiny.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 9
You and MeMovie · 1938 · 94m · Crime, Romance, Comedy"Mr. Morris" is a story set in a busy department store, about second chances, love, and lies. Mr. Morris, the owner, hires recently paroled ex-convicts as sales clerks. Helen Roberts and Joe Dennis are among them, and they struggle with love and money while working there.
They marry, but Helen's past comes back to haunt them, revealing a deception that threatens their relationship. Hurt and disillusioned, Joe returns to his old gang and plans a robbery at the store where he found hope.
"Mr. Morris" is an emotional story about flaws, forgiveness, love, loyalty, and redemption when facing hardship.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 10
You Only Live OnceMovie · 1937 · 86m · Crime, Drama, Romance"Eddie Taylor" is a story inspired by Bonnie and Clyde, following Eddie as he tries to find justice while living as an outlaw. After prison, Eddie is wrongly accused of murder and flees with his wife Joan and baby. They face law enforcement and enemies, forcing them into a dangerous life. What starts as survival becomes a descent into crime, testing Eddie's morals and revealing to Joan that a peaceful life might be impossible. The film explores love, loyalty, and redemption amidst relentless pursuit and the consequences of their actions.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 11
FuryMovie · 1936 · 92m · Crime, DramaJoe, a quiet gas station owner, travels to his fiancée Katherine's hometown for pre-wedding time. His peaceful visit turns chaotic when local police mistakenly arrest him as a notorious kidnapper.
Wrongfully imprisoned, Joe struggles to navigate the legal system and prove his innocence. He meets a variety of people, each with hidden agendas, forcing him to question everyone's true nature, including his own.
The film examines loyalty, trust, and determination when Joe's life is unexpectedly upended. This drama highlights the strength of the human spirit and the importance of fighting for justice, even when facing overwhelming obstacles.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 12
The Indian TombMovie · 1959 · 97m · Adventure, Drama, RomanceIn a land steeped in tradition, Seetha and Harold Berger are rescued from the desert and brought to a village. However, when their host breaks sacred customs, they become targets of Prince Ramigani. As Ramigani schemes to control Seetha, Harold must fight to free her. Meanwhile, Irene and Walter Rhode grow wary of Maharaja Chandra's plans and Harold's future. Seetha is forced into a marriage with Ramigani to incite religious conflict and gain an alliance. The story unfolds as a compelling tale of love, betrayal, and courage, with Harold determined to save his wife from those who wish to use her.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.1 - 13
Western UnionMovie · 1941 · 95m · WesternEdward Creighton leads the ambitious effort to build the Western Union telegraph line, linking the East and West. He assembles an unlikely team: a hardened former outlaw and an inexperienced Eastern surveyor. Their journey reveals contrasting viewpoints and personal histories, exploring themes of redemption, growth, and the strength found in unexpected alliances. The film is preserved by the Academy Film Archive and Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation for future generations.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 14
Master of LoveMovie · 1919 · 60mA man's unwavering love for a woman leads to his downfall.IMDb 6.0TMDB 3.0 - 15
Hangmen Also Die!Movie · 1943 · 134m · Drama, Thriller, WarDuring World War II, Czech surgeon Dr. Franticek Svoboda makes a dangerous decision to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, the brutal Reich Protector known as the "Hangman of Europe." The attempt wounds him, forcing him to flee for his life. He finds refuge with history professor Stephen Novotny and his daughter Mascha, who shelter and help him while Nazi forces occupy Czechoslovakia. The story follows their courageous fight for survival, highlighting the strength of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances during a time of widespread chaos.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 16
Scarlet StreetMovie · 1945 · 103m · Drama, CrimeChristopher Cross is a struggling artist working as a cashier. He becomes deeply infatuated with the charming Kitty March, unaware she's interested in Johnny, a small-time criminal. When art dealers show interest in Christopher’s paintings, Kitty and Johnny plot to take advantage of his affection. They convince him to let Kitty present his work as her own, hoping for fame and money. But despite his love for Kitty, Christopher's limits are tested, leading to a breakdown of trust and deception.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 17
SpiesMovie · 1928 · 145m · Thriller, RomanceA master spy has built a sprawling network of agents worldwide to gather vital information. His carefully constructed operation is thrown into turmoil when he uncovers a secret: one of his most valuable Russian spies is having an affair with a charming agent from the government's secret service.
Now, the spy chief must struggle to balance his responsibilities with his personal feelings. The forbidden romance endangers the entire operation and puts lives at risk. As he investigates the complicated web of secrets and desires, he begins to doubt everyone – including himself.
The film examines trust, loyalty, and the difficult choices between love and duty in a world built on deception. With suspenseful storytelling, this thriller explores the complexities of espionage and human nature.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 18
The Spiders: Part 2 - The Diamond ShipMovie · 1920 · 105m · Adventure, CrimeAdventurer Kay Hoog, a millionaire seeking peace after surviving a dangerous ordeal in an ancient Incan city, finds his tranquility shattered when his Incan love, Naela, is murdered on his property by Lio Sha, a ruthless leader of the criminal syndicate known as The Spiders. Devastated, Kay vows revenge and sets out to destroy The Spiders and their leader.
The Spiders are pursuing the legendary Buddha-head Diamond, an artifact rumored to grant immense power and potentially reshape global dominance in Asia. As the world faces this threat, Kay’s quest for vengeance intensifies, leading him on a perilous mission to track down the elusive Spiders, uncover their plans, and bring Lio Sha to justice.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9 - 19
The Return of Frank JamesMovie · 1940 · 92m · WesternIn a quiet rural community, Farmer Frank raises young Jesse after a family tragedy. When Jesse's siblings, the Ford brothers, murder him, Frank is consumed by grief and anger. With the help of Jesse’s loyal friend, he begins a relentless quest for revenge against the Fords.
As they investigate, Frank and his friend uncover a network of lies and betrayal that endangers their lives and the peace of their town. This intense story explores family, loyalty, and the cost of seeking justice in a harsh world.
The film follows Farmer Frank’s difficult journey as he pursues vengeance, forcing him to confront his own inner struggles.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 20
The Testament of Dr. MabuseMovie · 1933 · 122m · Crime, Mystery, ThrillerA detective is drawn into a dangerous mystery while investigating Dr. Mabuse, a criminal mastermind rumored to have hypnotic abilities. After being attacked and placed in an asylum under Professor Baum's care, the detective becomes fascinated by the professor’s fixation on Mabuse. As crime increases in the city, links between Mabuse's writings and these new crimes become clear. Commissioner Lohmann must now solve this complicated case, but Mabuse remains hidden, and conflicting information complicates the investigation. Lohmann races to understand how Mabuse is communicating with criminals before disaster strikes. This suspenseful story explores the dark side of society as it reveals the secrets behind a criminal genius.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 21
Secret Beyond the DoorMovie · 1947 · 99m · Mystery, Thriller, DramaA young heiress impulsively marries a man she met on vacation in Mexico. She soon finds herself in a chilling new world when she arrives at his lavish mansion, filled with unsettling displays and an odd family. As their marriage deteriorates, her investigation into her husband’s past leads her to a locked room, revealing the truth behind his obsession and the fate of his first wife. The film explores love, deception, and the power of the past, maintaining a tense atmosphere until the very end as it questions the depths of human desire and the consequences of hidden secrets.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 22
While the City SleepsMovie · 1956 · 100m · Thriller, DramaIn a busy city, competitive newspaper reporters race to expose a notorious serial killer called "The Lipstick Killer." Each reporter has their own methods and reasons for wanting to solve the case, relentlessly pursuing clues, facing danger, and questioning what's right to get the story. Their professional competition turns into a dangerous game with deadly consequences, all while dealing with hidden secrets and personal struggles. Against a backdrop of city-wide fear, this suspenseful story explores ambition, honesty, and the difficulty of knowing what's right when seeking the truth.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 23
The Thousand Eyes of Dr. MabuseMovie · 1960 · 99m · Crime, Mystery, ThrillerThis film follows a journalist who is murdered on his way to work. A clairvoyant witnesses the crime in a vision. However, his ability to identify the killer is blocked. The story is a mystery about good versus evil, as the clairvoyant struggles to uncover the truth behind the murder. It’s a look at where psychic abilities intersect with a real criminal investigation.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 24
The Wandering ImageMovie · 1920 · 67mAfter becoming pregnant by Georg, a proponent of free love, Irmgard decides to pose as his wife for the sake of her child. The plan is to marry his twin brother, John, who will impersonate Georg during the ceremony. Shortly after the wedding, Georg vanishes and is presumed dead. Years later, Irmgard attempts to escape John, who has become fixated on her. In the mountains, she encounters a stranger who offers her protection.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.9 - 25
Human DesireMovie · 1954 · 91m · Crime, Drama, RomanceSet in post-Korean War America, the film follows a railroad engineer’s difficult return to civilian life after military service. It explores betrayal and guilt as he becomes involved in a secret affair with a colleague's wife. The relationship deepens, revealing jealousy, obsession, and murder, culminating in a shocking conclusion that challenges viewers' sense of morality. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive and Sony Pictures Entertainment in 1997, this story of human frailty offers a timeless reflection on the potential for both good and evil within us all.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 26
Half-BloodMovie · 1919 · 54mA man is undone by love.IMDb 6.9 - 27
Woman in the MoonMovie · 1929 · 170m · Drama, Science Fiction, RomanceA driven scientist discovers gold on the moon and builds a rocket to establish a mining operation, assembling a diverse crew for the journey. But as launch day nears, tensions flare among the crew due to personal and professional conflicts, as they compete for leadership and resources. The mission shifts from exploration to survival, testing their resilience in space and exposing their conflicting desires that threaten to destroy their lunar goals. The film examines ambition, human conflict, and the pursuit of wealth in a challenging environment, highlighting our capacity for both teamwork and rivalry when facing extraordinary circumstances.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 28
MMovie · 1931 · 109m · Drama, Thriller, CrimeSet in 1930s Berlin, this intense German thriller follows the city's descent into fear as a serial killer targets children. Hans Beckert, chillingly portrayed, begins a violent series of attacks, prompting the police and criminal world to desperately hunt him. The film explores morality and societal breakdown as Berlin struggles with chaos caused by Beckert’s crimes. As Beckert finds himself isolated even among criminals, the audience witnesses a disturbing exploration of the pursuit of justice. With its evocative visuals and strong performances, this classic thriller continues to captivate audiences.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.1 - 29
House by the RiverMovie · 1950 · 88m · Thriller, Crime, DramaThis drama centers on Stephen Byrne, a wealthy writer whose intense desire for his family's maid escalates. After she rejects him and dies, Stephen manipulates evidence to frame his brother John for her death. This act exposes a complex story of jealousy, betrayal, and the destruction of Stephen's marriage with his wife Marjorie. The film explores themes of class, power, and human darkness, revealing a disturbing side of society.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 30
Clash by NightMovie · 1952 · 105m · Drama, RomanceThe story follows a woman seeking something more meaningful than her life. Hoping to escape unhappiness, she marries, but unexpectedly develops romantic feelings for her new husband’s best friend.
This film explores love, friendship, and personal growth as the protagonist searches for happiness. Her journey leads her down unexpected paths and into complicated relationships, challenging traditional ideas about marriage.
As she grapples with these new emotions, the audience experiences a range of feelings, contemplating the transformative power of love and friendship. The film offers a poignant and memorable look at these themes through an engaging story.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 31
Ministry of FearMovie · 1944 · 86m · Crime, Mystery, ThrillerAfter spending two years in an asylum, Stephen Neale returns to post-war England seeking peace. Instead, he finds that the turmoil of the war has spread throughout London. As he tries to adjust to this unsettling new world, Neale discovers a deadly spy ring operating in the city's shadows.
Caught in this revelation, Neale struggles to determine who he can trust and how to act. The danger of espionage makes him question his own sanity. This intense story explores how wartime deception affects people's minds, following a man pulled into a dangerous plot that challenges his resolve and his perception of reality.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 32
DestinyMovie · 1921 · 98m · Drama, FantasyA young couple finds unexpected refuge in a mysterious village inn, setting in motion a series of events that challenge their love and strength. When the man is suddenly taken by Death, the woman journeys to find him within an impossible barrier.
She discovers a hidden entrance and enters an otherworldly realm where she meets Death. He presents her with three stories set in different parts of the world, each exploring the pain of lost love and the characters' struggles with mortality, reflecting her own desperate situation. These stories offer wisdom about life and death, guiding her toward understanding their connection.
This suspenseful and beautiful story explores love, loss, and what it means to be human. It’s a powerful journey that makes us question time, fate, and the bonds between people.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 33
LiliomMovie · 1934 · 118mIn a world with limited opportunities, two women are both in love with the same man. In Budapest, Liliom is a charismatic carousel barker, admired by the seasoned owner of the ride and a naive young maid, Julie. After spending time with Liliom, Julie loses her job, and he is fired by his employer for the same reason. The couple moves in with Julie's aunt. Facing unemployment, Liliom feels diminished and is drawn into a life of crime by a shady local character. Julie remains devoted to Liliom, even when he is difficult. Meanwhile, a dependable widower, a carpenter, seeks to marry Julie. Can Julie and Liliom's passionate love find a future together?IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 34
The Blue GardeniaMovie · 1953 · 89m · Crime, MysteryA young woman's life is shattered when she learns the man she recently dated has been murdered. As her memories of their date become unclear, she begins to doubt herself – could she have been responsible for his death while trying to stop his unwanted advances? This film explores memory, guilt, and the complexities of consent, prompting viewers to reconsider their perceptions as the story progresses. The protagonist's search for the truth intensifies with each new discovery, leading to a suspenseful examination of human nature and difficult choices.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 35
Rancho NotoriousMovie · 1952 · 86m · Drama, WesternA troubled man embarks on a dangerous quest to avenge himself against a powerful man. He tracks his target to a secluded ranch, owned by the mysterious Altar Keane, a haven for outlaws. While navigating this perilous environment, the protagonist struggles to reconcile his desire for revenge with shifting alliances and betrayals. The story intensifies as the roles of hunter and hunted become unclear, leading to a surprising showdown that challenges ideas of justice and vengeance.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 36
Beyond a Reasonable DoubtMovie · 1956 · 80m · Crime, DramaThis crime drama follows a determined newspaper publisher who orchestrates a complex hoax to expose flaws in the city's district attorney's work. He enlists his future son-in-law, Tom, to help him prove that circumstantial evidence can be unreliable. The plan involves planting false clues that lead to Tom's arrest for the murder of a nightclub dancer. As Tom faces trial, the pressure builds as he prepares to reveal his innocence, potentially embarrassing the DA and questioning the city's justice system.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 37
HarakiriMovie · 1919 · 87mTo secure her future, the daughter of a daimyo is compelled to commit ritual suicide. She then falls in love and marries a European officer, who promises to return for her and their child. When he returns to Japan, however, he brings his European wife with him.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.8 - 38
Four Around the WomanMovie · 1921 · 85mHarry Yquem purchases jewelry for his wife from a dealer known for selling counterfeit and stolen items. While there, he unexpectedly sees the man his wife had an affair with.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.9 - 39
The Woman in the WindowMovie · 1944 · 99m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerA charming but mysterious woman draws a university professor into a dangerous world, blurring the line between attraction and obsession. She manipulates him into a murder he didn't know was happening. As the story progresses, the professor faces the serious consequences of his involvement and questions his own values. The film explores themes of love, desire, and betrayal, keeping audiences guessing as he navigates a complicated network of secrets.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 40
The Big HeatMovie · 1953 · 89m · Crime, ThrillerHomicide Detective Dave Bannion is a dedicated officer driven by a strong sense of justice. He investigates the suspicious suicide of a fellow officer who was investigating a dangerous crime syndicate before dying.
Bannion refuses to accept this as a simple suicide and begins a dangerous personal investigation to expose the criminal organization's influence within the police. His search leads him into the darkest parts of society, filled with corruption and violence.
As he uncovers layers of deceit, Bannion faces increasing danger and opposition from those protecting the syndicate. Despite the odds, he remains determined to find the truth.
This intense crime thriller follows Bannion's relentless pursuit of justice within law enforcement, where his quest for truth could bring him redemption or destruction. The film combines action, drama, and suspense to create a gripping and unforgettable experience.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 41
The Spiders: Part 1 - The Golden SeaMovie · 1919 · 69m · Adventure, CrimeIn San Francisco, renowned sports figure Kay Hoog surprises friends at a club with a message in a bottle. Inside is a map drawn by a missing Harvard professor, hinting at a lost Incan civilization and a valuable treasure. Kay immediately decides to find it.
Lio Sha, the ruthless leader of the criminal organization known as the Spiders, also learns about the treasure. She plans to intercept Kay's expedition and claim the prize for herself, leading to a dangerous race against time.
This adventure film explores themes of competition and courage as Kay and Lio become locked in a high-stakes battle to discover a lost civilization and its hidden riches.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9
