Few examples of Nazi-era mainstream German cinema have been seen outside of Germany. These films vary from overt propaganda to escapist fare, and if their entertainment value is now permanently tainted, they still provide historical insight into the popular tastes of German audiences during that period. Der Zerbrochene Krug showcases Oscar-winner Emil Jannings at his scenery-chewing height, playing a village judge whose very unjudicial behavior finally catches up with him. The comedy is often over the top, as is Jannings' performance, who shamelessly hams it up and plays Judge Adam as a grotesque buffoon. Likewise, the supporting cast, comprised largely of faces unfamiliar outside of Germany, comes across as cartoon characters. Even worse, the Nazi-era message that a man who is physically deformed (Judge Adam has a clubfoot) is also morally corrupt is both overstressed and disgusting. The film has a slapdash feel to it: the action is largely confined to the single set of Adam's house and court with the occasional cutaways to the generic village, the direction is routine, and the cinematography provides no indication that it was handled by a master of the likes of Fritz Arno Wagner. At times amusing (especially in the scenes when the various witnesses argue), Der Zerbrochene Krug is filled with stereotypes and some offensive ideas, but worst of all is guilty of bland storytelling and an uncreative approach. The occasional funny moments aside, there is a reason why this film is completely unknown today.
by Bob Mastrangelo
review
