The Crown of Shame

Jess Newton falls in love with Bruce Ravenhurst, but her father does not approve of the marriage. Bruce leaves for Africa to take part in an expedition, overcome with grief. Jess and her father also leave for Africa. There, Bruce and Jess's father become friends. Meanwhile, Bruce's cousin Hubert, who expects Bruce not to return, marries under Bruce's name in order to claim his inheritance. During an attack, Bruce goes missing and is presumed dead, and Jess returns to England, where Bruce is accused of bigamy. Fortunately, Bruce, who managed to escape despite being wounded, also returns, so that everything can be cleared up. The film has largely been lost – only a single fragment has survived.

Directed by Maurits Binger, The Crown of Shame leans on a strong ensemble — Annie Bos, Jan van Dommelen, Tilly Perin-Bouwmeester — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1918.