The Mandarin (1918): cast, story & where to watch
1918 · Film
Released in 1918, The Mandarin is a notable film directed by Fritz Freisler, running about 61 minutes.
What it’s about. In Vienna, the director of a sanatorium is telling writer Kristinus the story of a strange case. The very rich and dandy-esque Baron von Stroom had fallen in love with an actress but could not conquer her. One day he acquired a Chinese clay figure of a Mandarin, a talisman whose possessor is said to be able to seduce any woman he desires. As promised, all women's hearts fall to Baron von Stroom. The first is the actress, followed by the wife of the railway king, and then a Princess. Every time the Baron calls out “Man-da-riiiin”, the statue becomes alive ready to make another woman fall in love with his master. But von Stroom soon begins to feel nostalgic for the times when he would conquer the women he desired. However, his attempts to seduce women without the help of his ghostly servant become utterly unsuccessful. Unable to get rid of his devilish servant... Produced one year before The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, The Mandarin is a predecessor of German expressionism.
Who’s in it. The Mandarin stars Harry Walden as Baron Stroom, Carl Goetz as Mandarin, Nectar Flondor and Cornelia Haszay, among others.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Mandarin page.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Mandarin (1918)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Mandarin change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Who stars in The Mandarin?
- The Mandarin stars Harry Walden, Carl Goetz, Nectar Flondor, Cornelia Haszay and Trude Merly.
- When was The Mandarin released?
- The Mandarin was released in 1918, with a runtime of about 61 minutes.