In the futuristic city of Metropolis, the working class are forced to labour on assembly lines in underground engine rooms, while above, in the “Eternal Gardens” the rich and beautiful amused themselves.

A revolt among the oppressed masses leads to violence, chaos and destruction, but ultimately to a reconciliation between the classes.

The futuristic story about power, seduction and reconciliation was filmed at great expense and effort between 1925 and 1926 at the UFA film studios in Berlin. The film was a commercial flop and almost led to the production company's financial ruin.