Eisenstein's most famous film displays his strident visual invention
at its early peak, and ranks as one of the most intense of all silent
films. Unquestionably the power lies above all in the editing, which
remains extraordinary for its dynamism and power; the Odessa Steps
sequence is shattering in its tension and imagery of explosive
violence. The propagandistic aspects of the piece are a little
wearing, and Eisenstein tends to sacrifice subtlety for force. But the
film's demented visual invention is nevertheless stunning.
