Which movement in cinema focused on the psychological experience of characters?

German Expressionism is recognized for its focus on the psychological experience of characters, employing visual and thematic elements that reflect inner emotions and subjective realities. This movement emerged in Germany during the 1910s and 1920s and is characterized by distorted sets, exaggerated performances, and a highly stylized use of light and shadow, all of which contribute to creating a sense of emotional turmoil and psychological depth.

Filmmakers of this movement sought to evoke feelings of anxiety, alienation, and existential dread, often mirroring the socio-political landscape of post-World War I Germany. The films frequently delve into the experiences of individuals grappling with profound psychological struggles, allowing viewers to connect deeply with the characters’ internal conflicts.

In contrast, Italian Neorealism focused on depicting everyday life and social issues with authenticity, shifting the emphasis away from internal psychological experiences to external realities. The French New Wave, while innovative and influential, primarily explored narrative structure and breaking traditional filmmaking conventions rather than specifically zooming in on psychological experiences. The Silent Film Era, although significant in cinematic history, relied heavily on visual storytelling and intertitles, which were not designed to convey the intricate psychological landscapes that German Expressionism captures so vividly.