Flesh and the Devil (1926)

In the heart of Germany, childhood companions Leo von Harden and Ulrich von Eltz, bound by a sacred blood pact, share a bond as solid as an ancient oak. They find themselves bunking together in the military, with Leo's more reckless nature often saved by Ulrich's unwavering loyalty. Their camaraderie, however, is brought to the brink of destruction when the enigmatic and bewitching Felicitas von Rhaden steps into their lives during a furlough. Leo is instantly captivated by Felicitas's ethereal beauty at the railroad station, a fascination that deepens at a grand ball where they clandestinely depart together. Their secret tryst, however, is violently disrupted by the unexpected arrival of Felicitas's husband, who, unknown to Leo, challenges him to a duel. The duel ends in the Count's death, leaving Felicitas a widow and Leo sent away to Africa for five years as punishment. In Leo's absence, Ulrich, oblivious to the past dalliance, is asked to protect Felicitas. The years roll by, and upon securing a pardon for Leo, Ulrich shares the news of his marriage to Felicitas. Unbeknownst to him, Felicitas has kept their shared secret, drawn to Ulrich's wealth while still harbouring a potent allure for Leo. Leo returns home, his heart swelling with anticipation for Felicitas, only to be left shattered by the revelation of her marriage to Ulrich. While Leo attempts to distance himself from the woman who clouds his thoughts, Felicitas, like a siren, persistently tempts him, weaving a dangerous web that threatens to shatter the lifelong friendship between the two men. In the backdrop of this escalating tension is Ulrich's younger sister, Hertha, who secretly harbours feelings for Leo, and Pastor Voss, a childhood mentor to Leo, who strives to guide him through the stormy situation. As secrets unravel and passions ignite, it falls upon Leo to navigate the treacherous waters of love, friendship, and duty.

Flesh and the Devil is a drama movie featuring John Gilbert and directed by Clarence Brown.

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