Der Pfarrer von St. Pauli

Kurt Jurgens, a staple in American movies calling for a German character, is home once again acting in a German movie. Doubtless, I saw a dubbed translation somewhat poorly edited but just the same the acting prowess of Herr Jurgens shone through.

Here he plays a former submarine commander (which he was in The Enemy Below) turned Catholic priest ministering to outcasts - the poor, petty thieves, ruffians, prostitutes and the like. It must be explained though that among the soldiers of the Third Reich, the officers of the Kriegsmarine were the least likely to have been involved in atrocities. Well, for one, there was little opportunity. Nevertheless the Kriegsmarine better maintained professionalism during WWII as compared to the other services. After all, its leaders did cashier the infamous Hitler favorite Reinhard Heydrich, the butcher of Czechoslovakia. Admiral William Canaris who headed the Abwehr (military intelligence)was executed for his leadership in the plot to overthrow Hitler and the Nazis.

Etched in my memory is the scene where Curd Jurgens talks with a prostitute who at first propositions him. Reacting with the formulaic Spiritual Work of Mercy of admonishing the sinner, the well meaning Padre is rebuffed as the lady of the night unburdens to him her troubles. Just recently, she was ill used by a client who not only beat her but robbed her of her earnings.

The advice of the priest is both surprising and practical. "You should be more selective of your clients." The woman, however, retorted that poverty drives her to accept whoever comes along.

Towards the end, Jurgens plays Cupid to star-crossed lovers. He told them to fortify themselves (they were eloping) with hot tea spiked with rum, a drink I have enjoyed ever since.