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Amphitryon: Happiness from the Clouds
Lamenting Thebian women are waiting for the men to come back from war. God Jupiter is attracted to one of them: Alkmene. He goes to earth and tries to seduce her as himself: an old man. Failing in this, he disguises himself as Amphitryon (Alkemene's husband) and tries again. Next morning Amphitryon and his men come back from war; he suspects adultery and wants a divorce. Jupiter's wife Juno now also comes to earth and clears things up.
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Plot Summary
In this comedic fantasy, the gods Jupiter and Mercury decide to have some fun by impersonating the general Amphitryon and his servant Sosias. Jupiter seeks to seduce Amphitryon's beautiful wife, Alcmene, while Mercury tries to keep the real Amphitryon away. Hilarity ensues as mistaken identities, divine meddling, and human foibles collide.
Critical Reception
While specific contemporary reviews for this German film are scarce in English-language sources, "Amphitryon: Happiness from the Clouds" is generally viewed as a charming, if somewhat dated, romantic comedy that leans into mythological farce. Its reception would have been positive within its original German context for its lighthearted entertainment value and comedic performances.
What Reviewers Say
A lighthearted and comical take on classical mythology.
Features entertaining performances, particularly in the comedic roles.
A charming but not particularly profound cinematic diversion.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this 1935 German film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This film is a German adaptation of the classic Greek myth of Amphitryon, which has been retold numerous times in literature and on stage by playwrights like Plautus and Molière.
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