The Adventures of Prince Achmed is one of the most incredible works of art I have ever seen. The story isn't anything wonderful but this film is what started the age of animation. Without this piece, Disney would not be half of what it is. The story is a wonderful retelling of an Arabian Night tale but the story behind the film is even more incredible.
What Lotte Reiniger has done is created what many would consider impossible. Taking pieces of construction paper and using stop animation camera techniques to create a feature length film. It took her nearly three years to complete the strenuous task of taking 250,000 photos but the hard work pays off with an incredible picture brought forth. The film is a silent film but it doesn't matter as beautiful music is played with every act. As you watch this film, you almost forget you are watching animation and you think you are watching actual people behind a screen.
Now, if you're more of a fan of story telling than imagery then this may not be for you. The imagery far overtakes the story Shahrzad gives to Reiniger. I was simply blown off my feet when I saw this. There is some irony in the film however. The film was produced in 1926 Germany. Look at the decorations in the background on the Act cards, you be surprised what religious symbol you see.
The Adventures of Prince Achmed. 4.5/5
What Lotte Reiniger has done is created what many would consider impossible. Taking pieces of construction paper and using stop animation camera techniques to create a feature length film. It took her nearly three years to complete the strenuous task of taking 250,000 photos but the hard work pays off with an incredible picture brought forth. The film is a silent film but it doesn't matter as beautiful music is played with every act. As you watch this film, you almost forget you are watching animation and you think you are watching actual people behind a screen.
Now, if you're more of a fan of story telling than imagery then this may not be for you. The imagery far overtakes the story Shahrzad gives to Reiniger. I was simply blown off my feet when I saw this. There is some irony in the film however. The film was produced in 1926 Germany. Look at the decorations in the background on the Act cards, you be surprised what religious symbol you see.
The Adventures of Prince Achmed. 4.5/5