Underworld (1927)

"Josef von Sternberg's Underworld had been on my wish list for some time; it is a compact but really well-made film with interestingly complex characters that is (famously) also known as the 'first gangster film'. I used some rhythm boxes and Wurlitzer / Rhodes sounds to underscore the brooding atmosphere of the movie. Among other things I made up a simple, effective minor three chord 'theme' for the main character 'Bull Weed'; amiably, intimidatingly but most of all tragically portrayed by George Bancroft"

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Director: Josef von Sternberg

Running time: 82 min

Commissioned by Eye Filmmuseum

Performed live on 23/4/2023 (solo) at Eye Filmmuseum

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LIVE PERFORMANCE EXCERPT / COMPILATION:

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