Shanghai Express (1932): Shadows, Silks, and Steam
1932 • Josef von Sternberg • 1.37:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓
It’s time to board the gallery of screencaps from Shanghai Express, the pre-code classic directed by Josef von Sternberg. Set against the backdrop of political unrest in war-torn China, the film follows a group of international passengers whose journey takes a dark turn when they are caught in a web of espionage, danger, and rekindled romance.
While Marlene Dietrich and her fabulous Travis Banton costumes frequently command the eye, the film’s visual power lies in its incredible technical sophistication. By including location shots taken by cinematographer James Wong Howe in China, von Sternberg gave the film an authentic texture that made the beautiful studio sets feel more lively.
Josef von Sternberg was a master of composition. Beyond knowing exactly how to frame his star to perfection, his eye for striking the balance between light and darkness is almost unmatched. Using a Chiaroscuro style, where deep shadows are cut by sharp, atmospheric light, he transformed this express ride through romance and war into an unforgettable and glamorous cinematic thrill.
Technical Specs:
- The Story: During a civil war in China, passengers on a train journey from Peking to Shanghai find their lives entangled when the route is seized by rebel forces. Read my review of Shanghai Express.
- Actors: Marlene Dietrich, Clive Brook, Anna May Wong, Warner Oland, Eugene Pallette, Lawrence Grant, Gustav von Seyffertitz.
- Director: Josef von Sternberg
- Year: 1932 (Pre-Code)
- Cinematographer: Lee Garmes
- Origin: American Cinema
- Aspect Ratio: 1.37:1
- Genre: Drama / Romance
