After an assassination attempt and the shuttling of secret documents, we meet scruffy but handsome Willy Fritsch (as No. 326 aka Donald Tremaine). Our hero is a spy, working undercover as a bum. We assume Mr. Fritsch is (or was) looking to stop attempted assassinations and secure secret documents. The villain is dastardly-looking banker Rudolf Klein-Rogge (as Haghi), who sits behind his desk in a wheelchair, looking absolutely wicked. This mastermind has killed several agents, and assigns beautiful Gerda Maurus (as Sonya Baranilkowa) to hit on Fritsch. Naturally, they fall in love and make things complicated. In fact, the plot (and subplots) of this spy drama are not easy to follow. The story was adapted from the likewise titled novel by Thea von Harbou (aka Mrs. Fritz Lang). If your mind wanderers, it may be because this film has been "restored" to a length reportedly greater than any previous edition. This is great for film historians, but could induce boredom for the uninitiated. However, the production is first-rate, and Mr. Lang's work is quite artful. You might need to watch "Spione" twice. So, prepare for a commitment and hang in as the final portions make it worth the watch.
******* Spione/ Spies (3/22/28) Fritz Lang ~ Willy Fritsch, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Gerda Maurus, Lien Deyers
******* Spione/ Spies (3/22/28) Fritz Lang ~ Willy Fritsch, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Gerda Maurus, Lien Deyers