Flesh and the Devil (1926)

Directed by Clarence Brown
Live piano accompaniment by Larry Garf • Introduction and discussion with Rich Procter

One of the most iconic romantic dramas of the silent era, Flesh and the Devil stars Greta Garbo and John Gilbert in the film that made them both legends—on screen and off. Directed by Clarence Brown, the story follows two lifelong friends whose bond is tested when they fall in love with the same woman, leading to betrayal, passion, and a duel that would define classic Hollywood melodrama.

The film is celebrated not only for Garbo’s magnetic performance and Brown’s lush visual style, but also for its emotional depth—rare among silent films of its time. Shot with shimmering cinematography and framed by the sweeping gestures of early cinema, Flesh and the Devil reveals why Garbo became synonymous with cinematic allure.

At Sierra Madre Playhouse, the film comes alive with live piano accompaniment by Larry Garf, whose improvised score heightens every romantic turn and dramatic tension. Writer and humorist Rich Procter will introduce the film and lead a post-show discussion exploring its artistry, the Garbo-Gilbert love story, and the enduring legacy of silent film.

An unforgettable evening of classic cinema, music, and history—where the silver screen’s most famous lovers meet again, this time in an intimate theatrical setting.

Tickets: $20