Sunrise is a beautiful film made possible by technical achievement and expressive acting. Murnau's use of double exposure was innovative and memorizing. It not only creates imaginative shots, but adds to story. Double exposure was used to illustrate the inner turmoil of characters, create contrast between different environments, and allude to future elements of the story. Murnau brings the artistry of the German Expressionist movement to this film.

Sunrise created a marriage between the techniques of German filmmakers and American filmmakers, creating a one of a kind film. Light and shadow was used masterfully and adds drama. A simple story of betrayal, forgiveness, and love is really brought to life by the innovative techniques of Murnau.