He is the most sought-after man in Europe in the 1960s. Lex Barker embodies the flawless hero in his films and, as Old Shatterhand, becomes a role model for generations of fans. Revered in Europe, misunderstood and almost forgotten in his native America. But who was this American who rode through Yugoslavia in a leather costume for the European audience? In 1973, Lex Barker died of a heart attack on the streets of Manhattan in New York. But no one recognizes the man who was Tarzan in Hollywood. Nobody knows him or cares about that he, as Winnetou's friend, is revered as an icon in Europe. Lex Barker's European western adventures are just a footnote in American film history. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his death, the documentary tells the story of one of the most beautiful men who ever flickered across Europe's cinema screens, for whom European cinema proved to be a stroke of luck and for whom a failed Hollywood career took him via Italy to Germany.
He is a living legend in Germany, but never became known to a wider audience in France: Winnetou actor Pierre Brice. Director Oliver Schwehm sensitively traces the career of the French actor, whose career only took off very hesitantly in the 1950s before he experienced a meteoric rise through the role of the noble Apache chief. Brice reflects on his role as "Winnetou" and visits the original locations in Croatia 40 years after the last filming was completed. Statements from colleagues and former companions (including Mario Adorf and Marie Versini) as well as numerous film clips round off this entertaining documentary.
A legendary blue diamond draws five friends on an arduous expedition to the jungles of Thailand. Things go wrong after a murder, with one friend going to prison. The friends are reunited after seven years when one is kidnapped.
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