Movie spotlight
Masquerade in Vienna
After a masked carnival ball, Gerda Harrandt, wife of the surgeon Carl Ludwig Harrandt, allows the fashionable artist Ferdinand von Heidenick to paint a portrait of her wearing only a mask and a muff. This muff however belongs to Anita Keller, in secret the painter's lover but also the fiancée of the court orchestra director Paul Harrandt. The picture is then published in the newspaper. When Paul sees it and asks von Heidenick some questions about the identity of the model, the artist is forced to improvise a story and on the spur of the moment invents a woman called Leopoldine Dur as the alleged model. Leopoldine Dur however turns out to be a real woman whose acquaintance Heidenick makes shortly afterwards.
Insights
Plot Summary
A charming but penniless prince, Dimitri, falls for the beautiful daughter of a wealthy industrialist, but pretends to be a wealthy suitor to gain her father's approval. He must navigate the complexities of high society and his own deception to win her heart and secure his future.
Critical Reception
The film was a moderate success, praised for its witty dialogue, sophisticated direction, and charming performances, though some critics found its plot somewhat predictable. It is considered a fine example of Lubitsch's signature style.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sophisticated humor and Lubitsch's directorial touch.
Admired for the charismatic performances of the lead actors.
Noted for its elegant production design and musical numbers.
Google audience: Audience reception is not readily available, but contemporary reviews generally highlighted the film's charm and wit.
Fun Fact
Ernst Lubitsch famously directed 'Masquerade in Vienna' with a signature blend of romantic comedy and musical numbers, creating a sophisticated and entertaining experience for audiences of the era.
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