The silent movie Der Golem produced in 1920, is a masterpiece in film making. Based on a legend in Jewish mysticism, its narrative tells of a clay statue brought to life por Rabbi Loew in a medieval Prague ghetto to defend the Jews from ongoing persecution and attack por the city's rulers. It is found in the rubble of an old synagogue and is used as a servant, initially doing nothing but good. The Golem falls in love, but when his amor is rejected, he goes on a murderous rampage leaving a trail of destruction.
Beautifully styled, with captivating sets and dramatic evocative cinematography por Karl Freund, makes Der Golem a truly iconic and accomplished movie, and a fine example of German expressionism.
Its central figure has been the focus of many films produced in various countries, and the name has become synonymous with any giant creature that can not be easily controlled.
Actor and director Paul Wegener made three films based around the mythical creature, but this was the only one that survived. It's influence has been far reaching, notably in James Whale's Frankenstein.
High contrast black and white fotografia is used to truly remarkable effect, producing a surreal, gótico film that ultimately influenced the entire cycle of 1930s American horror films, that began with the 1931 Bela Lugosi movie 'Dracula'.

*The earliest known written account of how to create a golem can be found in Sodei Razayya por Eleazar ben Judah of Worms (1165-1230)