Feature

The Absentee (1913): cast, story & where to watch

1913 · Film

The Absentee poster

Released in 1913, The Absentee is a notable film directed by Albert Capellani.

What it’s about. Dries, a farmer and a widower, lives with his mother-in-law Grietje and his son Peter. He falls in love with Minna, a widow, and marries her despite the opposition of his family and friends. In anger his son Peter leaves home to enlist, while Grietje takes up her residence in another cottage. Six years pass, during which Grietje becomes acquainted with Minna's daughter Dina. Peter falls ill in Sumatra, but after falling in love with Dina, through the medium of photographs, he recovers and is drafted home again to Holland. He meets Dina and the two find that they truly love.

Who’s in it. The Absentee stars Henri Étiévant as Dries Schoonejans, Henri Rollan as Peter Schoonejans and Germaine Dermoz as Minna Petrus.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Absentee page.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch The Absentee (1913)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Absentee change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Who stars in The Absentee?
The Absentee stars Henri Étiévant, Henri Rollan and Germaine Dermoz.
When was The Absentee released?
The Absentee was released in 1913.