The Four Companions (film)

Die Vier Gesellen (translated as The Four Companions) is a 1938 German drama film directed by Carl Froelich. The film portrays the story of four young journeyman carpenters who, upon completing their apprenticeship, decide to establish their own woodworking business together rather than seeking employment elsewhere. The narrative focuses on their struggles to achieve success in a competitive market, their personal relationships, and their dedication to their craft and each other. The film is considered an example of Heimatfilm, a genre of German cinema that romanticizes rural life and traditional values. It also carries propaganda elements common in films produced during the Nazi era, subtly promoting themes of national unity, self-reliance, and the importance of hard work. The film stars actors such as Hans Söhnker, Elfriede Datzig, and Carola Höhn.