Die Teufelsanbeter

In the wild, hardly explored mountains of Kurdish country lives the mysterious society of the Jesidi , who are called the devil worshipers by their opponents. In these mountains, shaded by dark fir trees, revenge and hatred reign and constant struggle between the countless races and sects. Strange festivals unite the fervor of thousands, crowned by the dramatic sacrificial death of one of their holy men. And yet, even in these pictures, which are filled with tremendous passion, there is no lack of warm humor and a cheerful, strong forgiving nature that leads everything to a liberating end. The film is believed to be lost.

Directed by Marie Luise Droop, Die Teufelsanbeter leans on a strong ensemble — Carl de Vogt, Meinhart Maur, Tronier Funder — 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 adventure titles of 1920.