Dr. Mabuse: The Gambler (Part 2) (1922) ****

With its many characters and twisty-turny plot, Dr. Mabuse: The Gambler (1922)—the first of three Mabuse films by visionary director Fritz Lang—can be confusing at times. Its 4 1/2 hour run time can be a test of anyone's patience as well (on this viewing I watched Part 2 only, to celebrate the film's centennial anniversary today). Nevertheless, the cinematography is impressive, the story is engaging, and the film is undoubtedly highly influential. While it is my least favorite of the three Lang Mabuse films (my reviews of the other two here and here), it is an undoubtedly important piece of cinema.

 Fritz Lang Films Ranked