Destiny (1921)

As a young couple stops and rests in a small village inn, the man is abducted by Death-the woman is allowed three chances to recover him, but in order to do so she must prove that Love is stronger than Death...

Celebrated director Fritz Lang, finally given a large budget, does not disappoint. The protagonist seems trapped in a Gothic Expressionist fairy tale, with events occurring in Germany, Persia, Italy and China, familiar faces in multiple roles, well-done special effects that in no way overshadows the humanity of its characters-who are given ample time to shine in the 99 minute runtime. This film is credited with influencing Alfred Hitchcock, Ingmar Bergman and countless others...Silent, B&W.