Mazeppa, Folk Hero of the Ukraine

The film tells the story of Ivan Mazeppa, a Ukrainian page at the Polish court who has an affair with the young wife of a much older count. Outraged when he learns of the incident, the nobleman has Mazeppa tied naked to a wild horse which is then released into the wilderness. The bulk of the poem describes the long hazardous journey during which Mazeppa almost dies twice but ultimately survives and returns to his native Ukraine.

Directed by Martin Berger, Mazeppa, Folk Hero of the Ukraine leans on a strong ensemble — Werner Krauss, Lulu Lànyi, Mi. Samoliows — 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 1919.