Die Sühne (1918)

Ludwig von Laas and his mother lead a quiet life on a country estate. As she has every year since they were children, Renate, an up-and-coming sculptor, visits him again this year. A meadow festival is held in her honor. The invited guests arrive by water. Afterward, just as they did in childhood, the two play “Blind Man’s Buff.” Ludwig has an unfortunate fall into the water and is blinded as a result. Renate feels responsible for the loss of Ludwig’s sight and, after Frau von Laas dies, moves to her estate to care for Ludwig in her place from then on. It is not easy for her to give up her artistic career, especially since Renate’s teacher had predicted a promising future for her as a sculptor. Over the years, Renate grows careworn, as caring for Ludwig demands a great deal of her. Ludwig remembers his childhood friend differently and no longer recognizes her when he regains his sight one day. He falls into the clutches of the dancer Sybille, who is only playing a cruel game with him. Only late does Ludwig realize what he has in Renate, and he returns to her, remorseful.