The story follows Freder, the son of the city’s master, and Maria, a figure of hope among the workers, as they attempt to reconcile these divided worlds. Its central message — “the mediator between the head and the hands must be the heart” — frames the film as both a social allegory and a warning about the human cost of technological progress.

The film is celebrated for its monumental set design, pioneering visual effects and enduring vision of the modern city, combining Art Deco, Bauhaus, Futurist, Gothic and biblical imagery. Although criticised on release for its simplified politics and melodramatic story, it is now regarded as one of cinema’s most important and influential works. Its images of industrialisation, mass production, social inequality and urban modernity continue to shape the visual language of science fiction, architecture and city-making.

Architectural symbolism: In Metropolis, architecture becomes a visual expression of power, hierarchy and social division. The elite occupy monumental towers high above the city, while workers are confined to an underground industrial world, making inequality visible through vertical space. Its futuristic Art Deco and industrial forms suggest the promise of modern progress but also expose its dehumanising cost. Gothic and biblical references add a moral dimension, warning that without empathy and social balance, the modern city becomes oppressive, unstable and ultimately unsustainable.

This screening begins with a short introduction from the Liverpool Architectural Society, and is part of The Architecture of Monumentality series:

Tue 6 Oct, 18:15: Koyaanisqatsi (1982)

Tue 20 Oct, 18:15: Metropolis (1927)

Tue 3 Nov, 18:15: Louis Kahn's Tiger City (2019)

The Liverpool Architectural Society is the Merseyside branch of the Royal Institute of British Architects. It is one of the oldest architectural societies in the world, founded in 1848 with many past presidents being former staff and students at the Liverpool School of Architecture. 

It welcomes participation from all people with an interest in their built environment and how their cities and towns are shaped by commerce, planners and architects and the local community.

This event is part of FACT’s Community Cinema. If you’re an artist, independent filmmaker, charity, film club, or arts organisation, find out how FACT can support your film screening.

Community Cinema events do not include adverts before the screening. Doors open 30 minutes before the screening and the programme will start promptly at the listed time. Please arrive in plenty of time to help our team ensure everyone has a great experience.

Accessibility

This screening takes place in The Box on the ground floor at FACT and is fully wheelchair accessible. We can accommodate up to 50 wheelchair users for this event. If you are a wheelchair user, please let us know when booking your ticket so we can ensure the space is set up appropriately.

If you have any accessibility requirements, please inform us by emailing events@fact.co.uk.

You can also find information about FACT’s accessibility on our website here: Accessibility or use our Visual Story to prepare for your visit.

Free tickets for CEA or Nimbus Card holders are available from the FACT Welcome Desk or on the door at the time of the event. One free ticket per card holder.