Luther

This silent biographical drama chronicles the life of Martin Luther, a German theologian who sparked the Protestant Reformation. The film depicts his early struggles, his profound spiritual journey, and his courageous defiance against the Catholic Church and the Holy Roman Empire. It highlights his translation of the Bible into German and his role in challenging established religious and political powers of the 16th century.

While "Luther" (1928) is a significant work by Carl Theodor Dreyer, it is less widely seen and discussed than his later masterpieces. Contemporary reception focused on its historical significance and Dreyer's directorial skill in bringing the complex Reformation period to the screen. Modern critics acknowledge its status as an important historical epic, though it is often overshadowed by other films in Dreyer's oeuvre.

• A historically significant and visually compelling portrayal of Martin Luther.
• Dreyer's directorial prowess is evident in the film's epic scope and dramatic intensity.
• An important, albeit somewhat didactic, examination of the Reformation.

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The original cut of "Luther" was over four hours long, but it has been extensively edited and lost over time, with most available versions being significantly shorter and some scenes presumed lost forever.