When a theoretician, Manfeldt, believes that there is gold in the mountains of the dark side of the moon, he is laughed off by his scientific peers. Years later he is befriended by a wealthy inventor, Helius, who sees potential in his theory. With the help of his fellow engineer, Windegger, Helius prepares to build a rocket that will send them into space. However, Helius is not the only one interested in a trip to the moon. A secret society that controls much of the world’s wealth wants in on the action and through their spokesman, the devious Mr. Turner, they force their way into the moon mission. A struggle ensues between those looking for wealth and those striving for scientific knowledge. Over all the drama, mystery and suspense hangs the story of unrequited love between Helius and his assistant Friede who has just become engaged to Windegger.

The Woman in the Moon is considered the first true science fiction film because of its treatment of space travel. Shot 30 years before a flight to the moon would be feasible; Lang consulted with rocket experts to ensure accuracy in his representation of future flights to the moon. Certain aspects of the film are completely far fetched such as a moon with a breathable atmosphere however Lang makes up for these short comings in his treatment of space flight as a dangerous and very serious affair.

The acting is superb with accomplished German film star Willy Fritsch, portrayal of Helius as the love sick scientist longing for a woman he cannot have. There are several moments in particular where Fritsch shines. Toward the end of the film there is a scene in which Helius wants to talk to Friede but can not bring himself to face her. His hand glides gently across her locked door; his shoulders tense up and then finally drop in resignation. He is a man defeated. Again, in the final scenes Fritsch brings the audience with him on an emotional journey from sadness to, panic, and finally to surprise using only his facial expressions as a guide.

Playing beside him is Croatian born beauty Gerda Maurus as Friede and Klaus Phol as the wobbly kneed Windegger. Gerda is especially charming as Friede and plays her as a strong woman determined to follow the men on whatever adventure await them. She is the ideal feminist; beautiful, brave and honest.

Die Frau im Mond is based on the novel by Thea von Harbou, Fritz Lang’s wife and business partner. Harbou is also responsible for other screenplays including, Dr. Mabuse, King of Crime, Metropolis, Spies and M. In 1932, she joined the Nazi party which ultimately led to her divorce from Lang. In 1937, she penned the Third Reich propaganda screenplay Der Herrscher (The Master) based on Gerhart Hauptmann's play Before Sunset.


Director: Fritz Lang

Writers: Fritz Lang
Thea von Harbou

MPAA Rated: NR – essentially G

Trivia: Now a film cliché, Die Frau im Mond was the first movie to use the infamous countdown sequence during the launch of the rocket.