Spies

”Spies” (1928)

Spies (original title ‘’Spione’’), directed by Fritz Lang (M, The Big Heat, Metropolis, Hangmen Also Die!) and based on the novel of the same name by Thea von Harbou, foreshadows a later cinematic superspy. The 1928 film features a suave, sophisticated, tuxedoed secret agent, known as No. 326 (Willy Fritsch), who battles a Russian criminal mastermind, Haghi (Rudolf Klein-Rogge), who is bent on provoking a world war. Haghi hides in a massive, secret lair, is a master of disguise, and runs agents using drugs, blackmail, miniature cameras, disappearing ink, state-of-the-art surveillance and communication devices, and, of course, sex. Lots of sex. No. 326 cracks Haghi’s operation by seducing his top female assassin, Sonya Baranilkowa (Gerda Maurus), who cannot resist the rogue spy’s charm. An international cast is filmed in various exotic, foreign locations. Sound at all familiar?

The following weapons were used in the film Spies:

Mauser C96 "Broomhandle"

Haghi’s henchmen carry a Mauser C96 "Broomhandle" throughout the film.

Mauser C96 "Broomhandle"

Haghi’s henchmen are stunned.

Sonya’s Chauffer Franz (Paul Hörbiger) fights for the Mauser.

Sonya watches the fight while strapped to a chair.

Sonya tries to help.

The Mauser points at Sonya.

Franz takes control.

Model 24 Stielhandgranate

Throughout the film, Haghi’s henchmen wield Model 24 Stielhandgranate "potato masher" grenades.

Model 24 Stielhandgranate

Mauser Pocket Pistol

The traitor, Colonel Jellusič (Fritz Rasp) is offered a way out of his dishonor with a Mauser Pocket Pistol.

Mauser Pocket Pistol

Unidentified Pistol

Haghi’s female assassin, Sonya Baranilkowa (Gerda Maurus), carries an unidentified pistol