Final answer:
Fritz Lang set the film 'M' in the city of Berlin, reflecting the complex urban atmosphere of the time which was integral to the narrative of the film.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fritz Lang, the renowned German director, set the backdrop for his iconic film 'M' within the complex urban landscape of Berlin. The film, released in 1931, provides a dark narrative that explores the psychological undercurrents of a city tormented by a child killer. The choice of Berlin as the setting was integral to the story, demonstrating Lang's skill in capturing the tension and atmosphere of the city during that era. This characteristic feature of placing a story in a real-world, contemporary setting was typical of German filmmakers in the post-war period, highlighting societal issues through the medium of cinema.