The Miracle of German Expressionism

What are the key features of expressionism?

• large use of symbolism
  
• surrealism used
• artistic but physically unrealistic and absurd sets (due to lack of budget)
• lighting effects achieved by paintings representing light on walls and celling of sets
• themes usually include madness, insanity betrayal and evil

Where can the influence of German Expressionism be seen in film history?

German Expressionism influenced two genres greatly: horror and film noire. But it also has effects on Sci-fi (with films like bladerunner, which has clear influence in its dark atmosphere and style) and even mainstream popular cinema (Batman Returns shows clear German Expressionism in its set – the angular cityscape design of Gotham City)