A mysterious and incurable disease rages in a totalitarian state where a ruthless and strict marshal rules and threatens neighboring states with military attack. The disease has also appeared elsewhere in the world and is threatening to become a pandemic. The first symptom is a cold and numb white spot, hence the popular name “white disease”. Infected people are herded into internment camps.
In the state clinic, the marshal's favorite, Hofrat Sigelius, fights against this disease, but unsuccessfully because his scientific reputation is more of a facade. The marshal is supported by the arms magnate Baron Krog, and the propaganda minister is constantly preparing the population for war. Young people in particular, who are searching in vain for work, fanatically support the marshal and believe that a victorious war is the only way out of the gloomy situation.
Dr. Galén, a slum doctor, has found a cure, but he doesn't want to give the formula to any government until it gives up weapons and commits to lasting world peace. He covers poor people in the suburbs and rich people seeking peace. He refuses to treat the infected Krog unless the conditions are met. The marshal rejects this. Instead, he starts war against the neighboring country. The crowds cheer, but things turn out differently than you might expect...
This film will be shown as part of the "Czech Film Wednesday" series, as always in the original version with German subtitles. If you would like to be reminded of Film Wednesday in good time and would also like to receive further information about Czech culture in the Elbe/Labe Euroregion, you can sign up for our culture newsletter .
