A prince trades his crown for beer steins and heartbreak in this 1915 silent stunner.
Karl Heinrich is the heir to the throne of the small European principality of Rutania, but he's a lonely child, not allowed to play with other children and knowing little about life outside the castle. When he reaches maturity, he is sent to attend the University of Heidelberg, and finds fellowshi with classmates and a blossoming love with Katie Ruder, his only friend during childhood and the niece of an innkeeper. However, political turmoil in Rutania forces him to return. War is declared. Heinrich returns to Heidelberg one last time to bid a somber farewell to his beloved Katie.
Acting
Wallace Reid's expressive eyes do all the talking.
Cinematography
Heidelberg locations feel genuinely lived-in and romantic.
Director
John Emerson
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Wallace Reid was Paramount's biggest star in 1915; this film helped cement his 'golden boy' image before his tragic early death.
The 'student prince' archetype this film popularized became a template for decades of collegiate romance stories, from operettas to MGM musicals.
US
