The Red Virgin

Seeking refuge from an arranged marriage, Prince William flees to America where he secretly marries. When his father dies, he is persuaded to return to save his country but leaves before he can explain to his now pregnant wife. In despair she perishes. Her child, Fay, is raised to live for revenge. Years later when her father, the King, is forced to abdicate he comes to America with his son Franz. One evening Fay meets the young Prince and sets out to ruin him, which she does but when her father explains what really happened, she repents. In an unexpected twist a message arrives: the people of Moravia are clamoring for their King, and so Fay goes with her father and brother to face a new future across the sea.

Directed by Leon De La Mothe, The Red Virgin leans on a strong ensemble — Helen Jerome Eddy, Lee Shumway, R. Henry Grey — 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 1915.