A historical overview of German film from the silent era to the present, presenting close readings of 14 films from five major historical periods of German cinema. Each chapter analyzes a single film, discussing filmmakers' personal styles, genre, and modes of narration, and looks at the wider contexts of film production and reception including political issues and social change. Films include a Nazi propaganda musical, Ernst Lubitsch's Passion , and Wim Wenders' Paris, Texas . Includes film credits for each film, b&w photos, and extensive notes. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.