Midsummer Night's Fire
Midsummer Night's Fire

Movie spotlight

Midsummer Night's Fire

1939
Movie
83 min
German

After many years in Africa, a man returns to his village in East Prussia to marry his intended bride. However, he finds himself drawn to another girl and contemplates running away with her.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Director: Max ReinhardtGenres: Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Musical

Plot Summary

This film adaptation of Shakespeare's whimsical play follows the chaotic intertwining of lovers and fairies in an enchanted forest. Oberon, the king of the fairies, and his mischievous sprite Puck meddle with the affections of four young Athenian lovers, leading to magical mix-ups and comical transformations. Meanwhile, a group of amateur actors rehearses a play, unaware they will become pawns in the fairies' games.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Midsummer Night's Fire' was generally well-received for its visual spectacle, energetic performances, and faithful adaptation of Shakespeare's text. While some critics found the pacing uneven, the film was lauded for its ambitious production and the vibrant performances, particularly from the younger cast members and Mickey Rooney as Puck.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its charming adaptation and lively musical numbers.

  • The cast, especially Mickey Rooney, brings energy to the magical tale.

  • Visuals are impressive for their time, capturing the enchanted forest setting.

Google audience: Audience reception data from Google is not available for this historical film.

Fun Fact

The film was a remake of Max Reinhardt's own 1935 film, which also featured Mickey Rooney and Olivia de Havilland.

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