The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)
Music: Improvised by Tuomas Pyrhönen
On February 4th, 2025, a stunning gem of silent cinema was brought to life at Joensuu Church, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience for the 250 attendees. The 1920 classic The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, directed by Robert Wiene, was screened with a live organ improvisation by Tuomas Pyrhönen, adding a layer of intensity that heightened the film's eerie atmosphere. This haunting masterpiece, one of the first horror films ever made, remains a timeless work that continues to captivate film enthusiasts today.
The event was part of Joensuu's 2025 KulttuuriKimara, a winter a festival showcasing music, art and culture culture at the turn of winter 23.1.–9.3.2025. This particular screening was organized in collaboration with the North Karelia Film Association and Joensuu Evangelic Lutheran Parish. Accompanying silent films with live music is a rare treat in Joensuu—and in Finland at large—making this a unique and memorable cultural experience.
Accompanying the Film: Music that Speaks
Tuomas Pyrhönen's improvisation added a profound emotional layer to the film, with distinct musical themes crafted for each key character. For example, when Dr. Caligari first appears on screen, the music immediately signals his unsettling presence, with dissonant, discordant notes that mirror his dark and enigmatic nature. These musical cues don't just enhance the atmosphere—they deepen our understanding of the character, foreshadowing the ominous role he plays in the story. As the film progresses, the music evolves alongside the characters, reflecting their emotional and psychological transformations.
One of the most memorable aspects of The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari is its shocking and unconventional ending. At the time of its release, this narrative twist defied the norms of cinema storytelling, inviting viewers to reconsider the entire plot in a new light. This unexpected conclusion would go on to influence generations of filmmakers, establishing the film as a cornerstone for experimental and avant-garde cinema.
In the hands of an expert like Tuomas Pyrhönen, the live organ accompaniment further enriched the emotional impact of the film. The deep, resonating tones of the organ reverberated throughout the church, amplifying the tension and heightening the chilling atmosphere. This synergy between music and film helped cement The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari as a true cinematic classic.
Looking Ahead: A Continuing Tradition?
As the event concluded, one lingering question
remained—will this be a recurring event, and might we be fortunate enough to
experience another similar screening next year? Only time will tell, but given
the success of this unique collaboration, we can hope that the fusion of silent
film and live music will continue to enrich Joensuu's cultural landscape.
https://www.joensuu.fi/kulttuurikimara
https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Cabinet-of-Dr-Caligari
https://www.bfi.org.uk/features/100-years-cabinet-dr-caligari