Der Engel mit dem Flammenschwert (1954)

Once, the angel with the flaming sword drove humanity out of Paradise. Now, the film seems to suggest, people in their earthly lives are in danger of succumbing to sin once and for all. Two of these human “sinners” are Jürgen and Helga Marein, who are married in the young Federal Republic of Germany. Two children have sealed their happiness. Then one day a terrible suspicion arises, one that threatens to cast a shroud over their love: a complaint has been filed with the public prosecutor. It alleges that Helga and Jürgen are actually siblings, making their marriage incestuous. The young couple’s world falls apart. Their lives are now completely thrown into turmoil. Helga is so desperate that she tries to take her own life. She is rescued at the last moment. Jürgen then decides to flee abroad with his family, but his plan is thwarted and Jürgen is arrested. Only a friend of Jürgen’s can shed light on the matter by telling the press about the sensitive case, bringing the story into the public eye. The press tries to track down Helga’s mother, an artist. Gitta Binder had until then believed that her daughter was no longer alive. She gives Helga’s father’s name, helping to clear up the matter. Helga and Jürgen’s marriage can remain intact.