The Picture of Dorian Gray 1917
Step into the decadent world of The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917), Oscar Wilde's iconic novel reimagined through the lens of early German Expressionism.
Director: Richard Oswald
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917) about?
The film follows Dorian Gray, a young man who remains eternally youthful while his secret sins manifest in a cursed portrait. As his beauty fades for others but not him, the painting becomes a grotesque reflection of his moral corruption, exposing his inner ugliness over time.
Who directed The Picture of Dorian Gray?
The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917) was directed by Richard Oswald, a pioneering filmmaker known for his work in silent cinema and early horror.
Who stars in The Picture of Dorian Gray?
The main cast includes Bernd Aldor as Dorian Gray, Ernst Pittschau, Ernst Ludwig, Andreas Van Horn, and Lea Lara in pivotal roles.
Is The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917) worth watching?
Despite its age, this silent-era thriller offers a gripping exploration of vanity and moral decay that still resonates today. Its gothic atmosphere and psychological depth make it a compelling watch for fans of classic cinema and horror.
How long is The Picture of Dorian Gray?
The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917) has a runtime of 80 minutes.
About The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917) — A Silent Horror Masterpiece of Vanity and Corruption
Step into the decadent world of The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917), Oscar Wilde's iconic novel reimagined through the lens of early German Expressionism. Directed by Richard Oswald, this silent-era thriller weaves a haunting tale of vanity, corruption, and the grotesque duality of human nature. As the radiant Dorian Gray remains eternally youthful, his portrait on canvas bears the weight of his moral decay, revealing his inner ugliness in stark, unsettling strokes.
The film's gothic atmosphere lingers in every frame, blending psychological drama with eerie fantasy. Bernd Aldor stars as the enigmatic Dorian, whose beauty masks a soul steeped in vice, while Ernst Pittschau and Ernst Ludwig deliver performances that underscore the film's themes of temptation and damnation. With its striking visual contrasts and timeless meditation on the cost of eternal youth, The Picture of Dorian Gray (1917) remains a landmark of early cinematic artistry.