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Dolls of Death is an intriguing piece of cinema from 1920, steeped in a haunting atmosphere that echoes the themes of control and manipulation found in Lenau's poetry. The film adopts a rather eerie tone, using practical effects that might seem rudimentary today but possess a certain charm—those puppetry elements really pull you into this world of crime and duality. Pacing varies, with some stretches that linger on visuals, creating a dreamlike quality. Performances are, well, not always polished, but there's a raw energy that compliments the film's macabre essence. It's a unique entry in the silent era, reflecting a time when storytelling was as much about visual artistry as it was about narrative.
Dolls of Death remains somewhat obscure, with limited availability in collector markets. Its silent format and unique thematic elements draw interest from collectors of early cinema. While there have been a few releases on VHS and DVD, original prints are scarce, making it a notable piece for those focused on the evolution of crime films within the silent era.
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