Movie spotlight
Der Biberpelz
In a district of a small, German principality, things are going haywire. And this, even though Baron von Wehrhahn, who is loyal to the prince, does everything possible to make “his Highness” popular. The only problem is, he’s always using his zeal on the wrong crowd. He always seems to see free-thinkers or revolutionaries in the harmless of citizens; but the really bad ones get to go on their way unmolested! For example, the old woman Wolff: she steals everything that isn’t nailed down, while her husband pursues unhampered poaching.
Insights
Plot Summary
A cunning former lawyer, von Menzing, uses his wits and charm to outsmart a wealthy industrialist and secure his family's financial future. He orchestrates a series of clever schemes, including a fake embezzlement and a staged kidnapping, all while maintaining his reputation and eluding capture.
Critical Reception
The film was a popular success in its time, known for its lighthearted approach to crime and its satirical commentary on the upper classes. It is often cited as a representative example of German comedic filmmaking of the late 1930s.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its witty dialogue and engaging plot.
Noted for its satirical portrayal of social dynamics.
Considered a charming and entertaining comedy of its era.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available for this historical German film.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the 1893 play of the same name by Gerhart Hauptmann, a prominent German playwright.
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