Lotte Reiniger’s beautiful 1926 silhouette animation, The Adventures of Prince Achmed, brings to life magical tales from the Arabian Nights.
The earliest surviving animated feature film – preserved in the BFI National Archive – it has been hailed as one of the world’s most innovative and influential animations.
Three years in the making, made in card, cut entirely by hand, Reiniger’s exquisite shadow characters move intricately through colourful worlds of demons, witches, beautiful princesses and flying castles.
Musician Chris Davies reinvigorates the film with his skilful composition and live performance using a spectacular array of instruments from around the world to accompany Prince Achmed’s journey from the Middle East, to Africa, China and beyond.
“Lotte Reiniger’s brilliant Adventures of Prince Achmed is a true animation gem. Historically it is an important work in the animation canon — and within the global film community. Moreover, when coupled with musician Chris Davies’s new score, Reiniger’s work leaps anachronistically to present day and back again. It’s as if you’re watching the film as it should be viewed: In the 1920’s. His accompaniment is a work of art in itself. I recommend it wholeheartedly.” Mark Shapiro, Studio Laika
“A joy to behold. Beautiful and innovative – age only adds to its brilliance and charm.”
Empire