RAIN (1929) Documentary, Short | B&W | Classic Film

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Rain (Dutch: Regen) is a 1929 Dutch short documentary film directed by Mannus Franken and Joris Ivens. It premiered on 14 December 1929, in the Amsterdam Filmliga's theater, De Uitkijk.

Synopsis:

Rain is a lyrical, silent documentary that captures the transformation of Amsterdam as a rainstorm approaches, falls, and then fades. Filmed over two years, the film presents a poetic visual meditation on weather, urban life, and movement.

It begins with serene images of the city under clear skies—canals glistening, pedestrians strolling, trams rolling through open streets. Gradually, clouds gather. Ripples disturb the surface of the water, and raindrops begin to fall. As the rain intensifies, reflections shimmer, umbrellas bloom, and people adjust their pace and posture in response to the weather. Boats, bicycles, and trams continue their motion, transformed by the sheen and mood of the rain.

Eventually, the storm passes. The skies brighten, and the city emerges, washed and quieted, as if momentarily renewed.

Crew:

Director:
Joris Ivens
Mannus Franken

Cinematography:
Joris Ivens

Editing:
Joris Ivens

Production:
Film Liga (Dutch Film League)

Some modern releases include a musical score by various composers; the original film was silent.