“The Last Laugh,” directed by F.W. Murnau and released in 1924, is a silent film that delves into the life of an aging doorman who experiences a dramatic fall from grace. The film is renowned for its innovative use of literary and cinematic techniques, creating a poignant and visually stunning narrative . 🎬✨
1. Metaphor
Movie Scene Example Scene where the protagonist looks into a broken mirror The mirror symbolizes his shattered self-image and loss of identity. The final scene where he walks into the sunset The sunset represents the end of his former life and the hope for a new beginning.
2. Irony
Movie Scene Example The protagonist’s demotion from his prestigious position as a doorman Despite his loyalty and hard work, he faces a cruel twist of fate, losing his pride and dignity. The climactic scene where he laughs at his own plight while dining in luxury This highlights the absurdity and tragedy of his situation, as he is only able to regain his status through a farcical twist of fate.
3. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Example Early scene where the protagonist struggles with his heavy uniform Hints at his future demotion and physical decline. A conversation about retirement plans with his family Prepares the audience for the protagonist’s unexpected career change and the subsequent impact on his life.
4. Symbolism
Movie Scene Example The elaborate uniform of the doorman Represents his dignity, social status, and identity. The empty, desolate streets shown in several scenes Symbolize the protagonist’s isolation and loneliness after his demotion.
5. Motif
Movie Scene Example Repeated scenes of the revolving door at the hotel Symbolizes the cyclical nature of the protagonist’s life and his entrapment in his role. The frequent appearance of rain and stormy weather Reflects the protagonist’s turbulent emotions and the gloomy atmosphere of his life.
6. Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Example The luxurious hotel lobby versus the protagonist’s modest apartment Highlights the stark contrast between his professional status and personal life. Scenes of bustling hotel activity versus his lonely, idle moments at home Emphasizes his sense of loss and disconnection from his former life.
7. Allegory
Movie Scene Example The protagonist’s rise and fall Represents the fragile nature of social status and the human condition. The doorman’s struggle to reclaim his uniform Serves as an allegory for the universal desire for respect and recognition.
8. Hyperbole
Movie Scene Example The exaggerated reactions of the hotel staff to the protagonist’s demotion Emphasizes the drastic change in his social status. The opulent dining scene at the end Highlights the surreal nature of his sudden reversal of fortune.
9. Personification
Movie Scene Example The revolving door of the hotel Almost takes on a life of its own, representing the relentless passage of time and change. The uniform, treated as a character itself Represents the protagonist’s identity and pride.
10. Pathos
Movie Scene Example The scene where the protagonist is humiliated by his neighbors Evokes deep sympathy and sadness from the audience. The moment he is found asleep in the bathroom by his colleagues Highlights his vulnerability and despair.
Character Studies
Protagonist (Doorman)
Literary Device Explanation Symbolism The doorman’s uniform symbolizes his dignity, social status, and identity. When he loses it, he loses himself. Metaphor His struggle with the heavy uniform early in the film foreshadows his later physical and emotional decline.
Hotel Manager
Literary Device Explanation Irony Despite his position of authority, his actions and decisions often seem petty and cruel, highlighting the irony of his role. Juxtaposition His stern demeanor and the protagonist’s initial pride create a sharp contrast , emphasizing the power dynamics at play.
Character Dynamics
Literary Device Explanation Foreshadowing The initial camaraderie among the hotel staff foreshadows the protagonist’s later isolation after his demotion. Allegory The relationships between the characters serve as an allegory for societal attitudes towards aging and social status.
Dignity and Identity
Device Explanation Symbolism The uniform symbolizes the protagonist’s dignity and identity, which are stripped away with his demotion. Irony The protagonist’s fall from grace highlights the cruel irony of how society values individuals based on their roles and appearances.
Social Status and Isolation
Device Explanation Juxtaposition The contrast between the protagonist’s life before and after his demotion underscores the theme of social status. Pathos The protagonist’s loneliness and desperation evoke deep empathy, emphasizing the emotional toll of his loss of status.
The Human Condition
Device Explanation Allegory The protagonist’s journey represents the universal struggle for respect and recognition in a changing world. Metaphor The broken mirror scene symbolizes the fragmented nature of the human experience and self-perception.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Use of lighting and shadows The play of light and dark enhances the symbolic meaning of scenes, such as the protagonist’s fall from grace. Irony Juxtaposition of sound and silence The contrast between the bustling hotel sounds and the silence of the protagonist’s home life highlights the irony of his situation.
Literary Device Technique Explanation Foreshadowing Camera angles Low-angle shots of the protagonist struggling with his uniform foreshadow his impending fall. Pathos Close-up shots Intimate close-ups of the protagonist’s face capture his emotional turmoil and despair.
Scene Selection and Breakdown
Protagonist’s Demotion Scene
Link: Protagonist’s Demotion Scene Analysis: This scene uses irony and symbolism to highlight the protagonist’s dramatic fall from grace. The uniform, once a symbol of pride, is now a source of humiliation as he is stripped of it in front of his colleagues. The camera’s close-up on his devastated expression enhances the emotional impact.
Final Dinner Scene
Link: Final Dinner Scene Analysis: This climactic scene employs hyperbole and irony to create a surreal and absurd ending. The exaggerated opulence of the setting contrasts sharply with the protagonist’s previous destitution, underscoring the absurdity of his sudden change in fortune.
Broken Mirror Scene
Link: Broken Mirror Scene Analysis: This scene uses metaphor and foreshadowing . The broken mirror symbolizes the protagonist’s shattered identity, and the ominous music foreshadows the difficulties ahead. The use of shadows and lighting enhances the scene’s symbolic depth.
Engage your understanding of the literary devices in “The Last Laugh” with this interactive quiz:
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
What does the protagonist’s uniform symbolize?
A) Wealth
B) Dignity and Identity
C) Power
D) Fear
Which device is used when the protagonist laughs at his plight in the final scene?
What theme is highlighted by the empty streets shown in the film?
A) Isolation and Loneliness
B) Joy and Celebration
C) Conflict and War
D) Adventure and Exploration
How does the film use close-up shots?
A) To show action sequences
B) To capture the protagonist’s emotional turmoil
C) To introduce new characters
D) To display background scenery
