Musical Silents: The Golem

Live improvised score by Matt Hagen + Will Andrews (aka Willverine)
Widely recognized as the source of the Frankenstein myth, the ancient Hebrew legend of the Golem provided actor/director Paul Wegener with the substance for one of the most adventurous films of the German silent cinema.
Suffering under the tyrannical rule of Rudolf II in 16th-century Prague, a Talmudic rabbi (Albert Steinruck) creates a giant warrior (Paul Wegener) to protect the safety of his people. Sculpted of clay and animated by the mysterious secrets of the Kabbalah, the Golem is a seemingly indestructible juggernaut, performing acts of great heroism, yet equally capable of dreadful violence. When the rabbi’s assistant (Ernst Deutsch) takes control of the Golem and attempts to use him for selfish gain, bad things happen.
With its remarkable creation sequence—a dazzling blend of religion, sorcery and special effects—and the grand-scale destruction of its climax, The Golem is one of the great achievements of the legendary UFA Studios, and remains an undeniable landmark in the evolution of the horror film.
Matt Hagen is a Burlington, Vermont-based musician whose sound is as layered and unhurried as the Green Mountain seasons. His music varies from instrumental, genre bending guitar to intimate storytelling, with a voice that feels lived-in and genuine. A fixture in Vermont’s independent music scene, Matt has earned recognition, trust, and respect as a standout voice in Burlington’s vibrant creative community. Whether performing at premier clubs, intimate local venues, headlining events, supporting main stage acts, or tucked into a quiet corner of the city, he brings a rare authenticity that resonates long after the last chord fades. A seasoned songwriter, bandleader, and eclectic collaborator, Hagen writes and performs in a palatable fashion while unafraid to wander into strange sonic territory. It’s music made for people who listen closely.