Alraune (1930 film)

Alraune is a German science fiction horror film released in 1930, directed by Richard Oswald. It is a remake of Oswald's own silent film of the same name from 1928, which was itself based on the novel Alraune by Hanns Heinz Ewers.

The film tells the story of Professor Jacob ten Brinken, a scientist obsessed with proving his theories about heredity. He artificially inseminates a prostitute with the semen of a hanged murderer to create a daughter, Alraune. Alraune grows up beautiful but soulless and devoid of moral conscience, driven only by her primal instincts. She uses her beauty to seduce and manipulate men, ultimately bringing destruction and heartbreak to those around her.

The 1930 Alraune stars Brigitte Helm in the title role, along with Albert Bassermann as Professor ten Brinken. The film explores themes of artificial creation, the dangers of scientific hubris, and the nature of humanity. It is notable for its expressionistic visuals and its provocative portrayal of a woman created through artificial means.

While not as critically acclaimed as some other German Expressionist films, Alraune remains a significant example of early science fiction horror cinema. It has been interpreted as a commentary on eugenics and the potential consequences of tampering with nature. The film exists in both German-language and English-language versions. Like the novel and other film adaptations, the 1930 Alraune contributes to the myth of the Alraune, a creature deeply embedded in folklore and often associated with both power and danger.