Originally a German silent horror picture, The Student of Prague first graced screens in 1913 before being reimagined in 1926, 1935, and again in 2004. It holds a notable distinction as the very first feature film the BBC ever broadcast, airing on August 14th, 1938. Directed by Arthur Robison, the film features Theodor Loos, Dorothea Wieck, and Anton Walbrook in its principal roles.

Film Synopsis

Set in the 1860s, the story follows Balduin, a dashing and well-liked student living in Prague who also happens to be the finest fencer around. Early on, the film establishes his tender feelings for Lydia, niece of the local innkeeper, while also introducing a good-natured rivalry with his close companion Dahl, who has his own eye on Lydia. Things take a dramatic turn, however, once the captivating Julia Stella enters Balduin's world.

Right when Balduin is falling for Lydia, the innkeeper's niece, everything begins to spiral after he crosses paths with the opera singer Julia Stella. He becomes smitten almost immediately — but there's a complication. Julia is already spoken for, kept by a wealthy baron named Waldis.

As a penniless student, Balduin feels utterly outmatched against someone of Waldis's stature and means. Enter Dr. Carpis, a shadowy and enigmatic figure harboring jealousy toward the baron. Through dark sorcery, Dr. Carpis approaches Balduin with a tantalizing proposition: in exchange for a mysterious favor, he will deliver both wealth and Julia's heart.

The bargain, however, carries a devastating cost — Balduin must surrender his mirror shadow. From that moment on, his own reflection becomes a relentless torment, dragging him into a spiral of terror and madness. Blending light-hearted glee with shadowy dread, this remarkable pioneering film remains a worthy watch for anyone who loves cinema.