Picture 5: Grand Hotel (1932)

For the first time the names of the actors are becoming vaguely familiar. Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford were superstars of their time and they light up this depression era classic.

"People coming, going. Nothing ever happens" is the ironic opening line from Dr Otternschlag. Ironic because, well - lots happens in this atmospheric Berlin hotel. What follows is 2 hours of significant life events amongst multiple connected characters staying in Berlin. Life and careers are ebbing away, debts need to be paid and pre-EU international business negotiations are in flux.

There are so many ups and downs by the end I became emotionally numb and part of me was willing the end credits to come. However, the journey is well worth it.

Reflections on the human condition:

1. You never know what's coming - the present is all you truly have.

2. We are all interconnected - even trivial seemingly things you do can impact on others.

3. If you look for depth and complexity - you can always find it.

Rating:

7/10

Oscar Best Picture Rankings:

1. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)

2. Wings (1928)

3. Cimarron (1931)

4. Grand Hotel (1932)

5. The Broadway Melody (1929)