WBEZ and Thalia Hall are excited to present a special screening of the 1920s classic film The Golem, featuring a live score by local metal band Yakuza. Over their 25-year career, Yakuza has shared stages with countless iconic bands and released seven full-length albums, including Way of the Dead, Of Seismic Consequence and Sutra, released in 2023. This January, they will debut their first-ever film score at the event!

This event kicks off a new film and performance series by WBEZ and Thalia Hall, where artists choose a public domain film, create an original score and perform it live. 

Join us on Saturday, January 25, 2025, for an unforgettable celebration of Yakuza’s 25th anniversary, featuring their powerful new score. Limited-edition screen printed posters will be available for purchase at the event.

This event is sponsored by New Belgium Brewing. 

Film Synopsis:

Der Golem (The Golem) is a classic early horror masterpiece and hallmark of German Expressionism. Directed by Paul Wegener and Carl Boese, the 1920 film is set in the 16th-century Jewish ghetto of Prague, where Rabbi Low (Albert Streinruck) creates a clay Golem (played by Wegener) to protect his people from the tyrannical Emperor Luhois. Brought to life by a demon spirit and a mystical amulet, the Golem becomes a heroic figure but turns destructive when manipulated for selfish purposes, wreaking havoc in the ghetto.

Band Bio: 

Established in July 1999, Yakuza has solidified its position as a Chicago icon for 25 years, skillfully straddling the realms of metal and experimental music. With seven releases under their belt, their latest album, Sutra, emerged in 2023 through Svart Records.