Here's a breakdown of what he's known for:
Film Noir:
* His early German films, particularly "M" (1931) and "The Testament of Dr. Mabuse" (1933), are considered foundational works of film noir.
* He established visual and thematic tropes of the genre: stark lighting, shadowy characters, moral ambiguity, and a sense of paranoia and despair.
* "M" is particularly lauded for its portrayal of a child killer and the pursuit by the police and criminal underworld.
Science Fiction:
* He's considered a pioneer of science fiction cinema.
* "Metropolis" (1927), a futuristic tale of class struggle in a dystopian city, is his most iconic film and a landmark of the genre.
* Other science fiction works like "Woman in the Moon" (1929) and "The Big Heat" (1953) also showcase his innovative vision.
Other Notable Aspects:
* His meticulous attention to detail and his visually stunning, often operatic style.
* His exploration of complex moral dilemmas and themes of power, control, and human nature.
* His ability to create suspenseful and visually striking narratives that resonate with audiences even today.
Overall, Fritz Lang's legacy is marked by his groundbreaking contributions to film noir and science fiction, his visual mastery, and his enduring impact on filmmaking. He is considered one of the most important and influential directors of the 20th century.