One of the most iconic visions in film history was the stunning transformation of the robot in Fritz Lang’s 1927 silent masterwork, “Metropolis.” [See inset.] In this very appealing backstage photo, young actress Brigitte Helm takes a much-needed break during the filming of that scene. Her costume was made from molded copper so you can imagine how hot and sweaty she must have been under the Klieg lights. One assistant helps her stay hydrated while another shoots air under her armor to keep her dry. Fraulein Helm was 19-years-old when this shot was taken. “Metropolis” took two years to film and cost five million Reichsmarks, making it the most expensive movie ever produced up to that moment. It was also the first time a robot had been featured in a motion picture. (Arnold, take note.) Though the movie was indifferently received by the public, Brigitte’s dual performance as the young heroine, Maria, and the Robot led her to silent film stardom. She fell afoul of the Nazi’s by marrying a Jew and took asylum in Switzerland in 1935. She was considered for the lead role in “Bride of Frankenstein” but Elsa Lanchester ultimately got the part. She retired from films shortly thereafter and became the mother of four children. She refused all interview requests for the rest of her life. She died in Ascona, Switzerland, in 1996 at the age of 90.
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