(Das Weib des Pharao, Ernst Lubitsch, Germany 1922, 100 min., 35mm, German Intertitles with English Subtitles)
Director Ernst Lubitsch tackles another historical epic with this film that tells a tale of love and betrayal in ancient Egypt. German cinematic superstar Emil Jannings plays Pharaoh Amenes, who is working his slaves to death to complete the royal treasury. He is approached by Samlak, King of Ethiopia (Paul Wegener), who offers his daughter, Makeda (Lyda Salmonova) in marriage to cement their political alliance. Meanwhile, Ramphis (Harry Liedtke) saves Makeda’s slave Theonis (Dagny Servaes) only for her to trespass at the treasury, earning them both a death sentence. Amenes sees Theonis and instantly falls in love with her, angering all involved and leading to a war between countries. Restored in 2011 with material from the George Eastman Museum, the film still lacks some footage, but is as close to the original release as it has been since its first release. The last film Lubitsch made in Germany, he would emigrate to Hollywood for the rest of his career.
Live piano accompaniment by Dr. Philip Carli.
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10 Films on Screen Representing the first thirty-five years of cinematic history, the Dryden Theatre has long had a commitment to silent films, dedicating more than ten percent of its program to this form, with live accompaniment.