Der Gang in die Nacht, FW Murnau (1921)

[Belle]

This is the oldest surviving film made by FW Murnau, in 1921, and it's in pretty reasonable condition, and provided with a new piano score. It's an odd film about miracle cures/magic powers, passion and self-destruction. Absolutely improbable - somewhat operatic - plot, but "The Walk into the Night" is an interesting silent film because it points towards Murnau's fascination with the human psyche.

After WW1 Murnau established his own film studio with Conrad Veidt and this film was part of that relationship. Veidt plays a blind painter in this film, and it's a comparatively minor role for him at this time in his career as Germany's premier, highest-paid actor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yre60xU7Gl8

FW Murnau with camera in 1920:



I've written before about Veidt's generosity towards the English in WW2. He was also very generous in the USA to the Motion Picture Relief Fund, as acknowledged in this image, when he provided his services free of charge.



Can't resist another picture of "Conny". Not exactly dressed for swimming!!

[Belle]

Hans Walter Conrad (Conny) Veidt could play any character part. His eyelashes were so long you could imagine mascara being applied before going on camera!!

[Belle]

Conny looking suitably androgynous!! I cannot find the film, or reference to the film, from which this still comes:

[Belle]

"Conny" in a production still with Red Skelton from "Whistling in the Dark", 1941. So handsome!!