Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: Germany
A Deep Dive into the 1931 Vision of Joe May
Witnessing the stylistic transformation of Musical through ...und das ist die Hauptsache!? reveals the provocative questions that Joe May poses to the Germany audience. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with Musical flair, it showcases the power of Musical as a tool for social commentary.
In ...und das ist die Hauptsache!?, Joe May pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
In this work, Joe May explores the intersection of Musical and Germany cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that ...und das ist die Hauptsache!? remains a relevant topic of study for Musical enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Slow-Burn |
| Art Direction | Brutalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Joe May's style and the core Musical narrative.
A husband takes his wife to a nightclub in Berlin. While there he breaks the news to her that he thinks they should divorce, and leaves her with a young girl on his arm. Angry and humiliated, the wife picks up a young nobleman and takes him home with her. Unfortunately, he turns out to be an international con man who drugs her drink and steals her jewelry. Luckily, the police have been following him and arrest him before he can get away. Meanwhile the husband is starting to have second thoughts about leaving his wife. Complications ensue.
Decades after its release, ...und das ist die Hauptsache!? remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Joe May's status as a master of the craft in Germany and beyond.