Watch One Arabian Night

One Arabian Night is a silent romantic comedy film directed by Ernst Lubitsch and released in 1920. The film features Pola Negri in the leading role alongside Paul Wegener, who plays a wealthy sultan. The story takes place in a fictitious Middle Eastern country, where the sultan falls in love with a gorgeous dancer named Sumurun (played by Pola Negri). Sumurun, however, is in love with a handsome young thief named Nur-El-Din (played by Harry Liedtke).

The film begins with the sultan attending a performance by Sumurun and falling in love with her instantly. He orders her to be brought to his palace, but Sumurun declares that she will only perform for him if he grants her three wishes. The sultan agrees, and Sumurun uses her wishes to request the release of her father, who is a prisoner in the sultan's dungeon, to allow her to marry the man she loves, and to be granted a pardon for her friend Nur-El-Din.

The sultan agrees to all three wishes, hoping to win Sumurun's love and affection. However, Sumurun's heart belongs to Nur-El-Din, who appears at the palace disguised as a eunuch. He sneaks into Sumurun's room at night and the two declare their love for each other. The sultan soon finds out about their affair and orders Nur-El-Din to be arrested and executed. Sumurun begs the sultan to spare his life, and he agrees, but only if Sumurun agrees to become his wife.

Sumurun accepts the sultan's proposal, but secretly arranges to help Nur-El-Din escape. However, their plan is foiled when Nur-El-Din is caught and sentenced to death. Sumurun decides to take action and devises a risky plan to save Nur-El-Din's life. The plan is successful, and the two lovers escape together into the desert.

Meanwhile, the sultan is devastated by Sumurun's betrayal and falls into a deep depression. He orders his advisor to find him a new wife, but her beauty fails to lift his spirits. In the end, the sultan realizes that true love cannot be forced or bought and decides to remain alone.

One Arabian Night is considered a pioneering film in the genre of romantic comedies. It features Lubitsch's signature light-hearted touch, and Negri's captivating performance as a strong-willed and independent woman. The film has been praised for its beautiful set designs and dazzling costumes, as well as the charming performances of the lead actors.

Overall, One Arabian Night is a delightful treat for fans of classic cinema. With its exotic setting, charming love story, and comical moments, it offers a glimpse into a bygone era of cinema that continues to captivate audiences today.