Despite the somewhat odd and in some places minimalist cinematography, this movie is a true gem. It captures the atmosphere, at some places reminds me of Babylon Berlin (not a coincidence given the theme of the film). Tom Schilling and Saskia Rosendahl both shine here. I was very happy to see them again as co-stars after Florian Henckel von Donnermarck's masterpiece, Never Look Away (Werk Ohne Author). German cinema is truly something to discover, with many great actors and great movies. Despite the relatively long running time this film after getting used to the cinematography, instantly draws you in. This is art, and not for the mainstream lovers that's for sure but if you are into this kind of movies, you don't want to miss out on this one.

The movie does feel like it is not from this world. The way it begins, the way our main character "acts" ... it all feels so detached from reality. Of course that is intended and of course this playing almost one hundred years ago plays a major role too. Acting wise this is quite something - everyone involved is giving it their best.

You may still feel at least a little bit detached from whatever you are watching. This is not an easy movie to watch - add to that the exhausting running time, the relationships, the different goals and some seemingly aimless "goals" this seems to hunt down ... you'd be excused for being on the fence about it. It is art though and in art everything is possible. Also you may like it's narration style more than others - pacing "issues" for some may be the greatest way to tell the story for others ... if you have a lot of spare time and like it like that, give it a shot. It surely is not a bad movie.

With so much allied disinformation and anti-German propaganda from the war, it's refreshing to see Germans diving into their own history. Of course still manipulated by the powers that be, but perhaps soon they date opening the Laterna Magica in full.