Film Details

Guy Maddin, John Waters, and German Expressionism meet 1940s melodramas and wartime propaganda movies in this fictionalized, phantasmagoric account of the rise to power of former Canadian politician William Lyon Mackenzie King, who served three non-consecutive terms as Prime Minister between 1921 and 1948. With color-blind casting and cross-gender acting, this bizarre, funny, irreverent spectacle creates a stylized, artificial universe light years away from staid biopics of yesteryear. “Clever animation, wacky puppets, painted backdrops and masks create a twisted, cult atmosphere as well as pay tribute to film classics. –Variety. Cleveland premiere. 90 min.

The Twentieth Century, a Cinematheque streaming exclusive, can be viewed online from 11/20 thru at least 12/10 via the link below. (Doing so supports the Cinematheque.) Screening fee is $10, and after opening the film, you have 72 hours to watch it.