Deutsche Helden

This film tells the story of Wendhorst, a man who is constantly striving to do his duty for his country. He protects Germany’s secrets but when his wife lets them slip, he abandons her and decides to continue to protect his country but this time on the battlefield. He is depicted as a hero battling enemy troops, but also demonstrates kindness and benevolence when he listens to the story of two prisoners. His benevolence is rewarded, as the prisoners turn out to be his wife and his son, whom he has never met. His newfound son decides to join him in battle but is killed fighting, and at the end of the film only Wendhorst comes home to his wife. Wendhorst and his son depict ideal German soldiers whose belief in the glory and good of their country never falters, even to the very end.

Directed by Franz Hofer, Deutsche Helden leans on a strong ensemble — Mia Cordes, Rudolf del Zopp, Max Laurence — 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 screen titles of 1914.