Eerie Tales (1919) is a classic German silent horror anthology film directed by Richard Oswald, featuring Conrad Veidt and Anita Berber
Eerie Tales (Unheimliche Geschichten)
Eerie Tales (Unheimliche Geschichten), directed by Richard Oswald, is a notable German silent horror anthology film released in 1919.
It stands as an early example of the horror genre, offering audiences a fascinating blend of supernatural storytelling and artistic innovation during the silent film era.
Here’s a detailed review of its various aspects:

Plot and Structure
Eerie Tales is structured as an anthology film with a framing narrative.
The framing device is set in a curiosity shop where the figures of Death, the Devil, and a Harlot come to life from a series of paintings to narrate five macabre tales.
This clever storytelling technique adds an overarching narrative that ties the anthology together, creating a sense of cohesion and intrigue.
The five stories are:
- The Apparition – A ghost story involving betrayal and murder.
- The Hand – A tale of obsession and revenge, centered on a severed hand.
- The Black Cat – A loose adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s famous story.
- The Suicide Club – Inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson, involving a clandestine club where members gamble with their lives.
- The Specter – A gothic romance with supernatural overtones.
Each tale delivers eerie themes of death, betrayal, guilt, and the supernatural, reflecting the fascination with dark and macabre themes in post-World War I Europe.
Visual Style and Cinematography
The cinematography, handled by Carl Hoffmann, is a standout feature. Eerie Tales employs chiaroscuro lighting, intricate set designs, and innovative camera techniques to create an unsettling atmosphere.
The shadowy environments and surreal imagery enhance the sense of dread and mystery, aligning with the aesthetic of German Expressionism that was emerging at the time.
The use of makeup and costuming is particularly striking, especially for characters like Death and the Devil, who are portrayed with theatrical exaggeration.
These visual elements effectively convey the eerie and otherworldly tone of the film.
Performances
Conrad Veidt, Anita Berber, and Reinhold Schünzel deliver memorable performances, portraying multiple characters across the anthology.
Veidt, best known for his later work in The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, brings a captivating intensity to his roles, embodying the sinister and tragic aspects of the stories.
Berber’s portrayal of the Harlot and other female characters is equally compelling, blending allure and menace.
Themes and Social Context
Released in the aftermath of World War I, Eerie Tales reflects the anxieties and disillusionment of the era.
The stories delve into themes of mortality, moral corruption, and the fragility of human existence, resonating with audiences grappling with the trauma of war.
The film also explores the supernatural as a metaphor for the uncertainties and fears of the time.
Pacing and Storytelling
While the film’s episodic nature provides variety, the pacing can feel uneven. Some stories, such as The Black Cat, are more engaging and well-executed than others.
The framing narrative is an effective but somewhat simplistic device, serving more as a thematic connection than a fully realized story.
Legacy
Eerie Tales holds historical significance as one of the earliest anthology films and a precursor to later horror cinema.
Its influence can be seen in subsequent horror anthologies and German Expressionist films.
It also highlights the creative potential of silent cinema in exploring dark and surreal themes.
Final Thoughts
Eerie Tales is a fascinating artifact of early horror cinema, blending Gothic storytelling with the visual innovation of German Expressionism.
While it may feel dated in some aspects, particularly in its pacing and narrative complexity, it remains an essential watch for enthusiasts of classic horror and silent films.
Its atmospheric visuals, strong performances, and exploration of macabre themes make it a significant work in the history of the genre.
Rating: 7.5/10
A must-watch for fans of early cinema and those curious about the roots of horror filmmaking.