This Night

About This Movie

This Night, R.W. Fassbinder's first project, is a compelling piece that’s shrouded in mystery, given its apparent status as lost. Shot on 8 mm color film, it brings an intimate, almost voyeuristic quality to the narrative. The pacing feels distinctly experimental, likely reflecting the early phase of Fassbinder's career. Themes of isolation and existential angst permeate the work, typical of the director’s oeuvre, but here expressed with a raw, unrefined energy. The practical effects are minimal yet effective for the time, contributing to its evocative atmosphere. The performances, though possibly uneven, offer glimpses of the intensity that Fassbinder would later become known for.

This Night remains an elusive entry in film history, as it's considered lost, making any surviving materials incredibly scarce. There are few known prints, which adds to its allure among collectors. While it may not be commercially available, interest continues to grow among enthusiasts of early Fassbinder and those intrigued by lost cinema. Its 8 mm color format adds a unique aesthetic that diverges from his later works, further piquing curiosity.