Wienerbarnet
Wienerbarnet

Movie spotlight

Wienerbarnet

1941
Movie
83 min
Danish

We are in a small Heurigen-Café in Vienna. The young singer Fritz Hertzgruber meets a young Danish writer, Jesper Ellekilde, and the two young people become friends immediately. Fritz has been to Denmark as a "Viennese child" and is now an enthusiastic member of the Viennese children's own club. The following evening, the club's annual draw for a trip to Denmark takes place, and Fritz is the lucky one - albeit by detours. Fritz and Jesper are accompanied to Denmark, where Fritz is very much looking forward to the reunion with his foster parents, the composer Emilius Andersen and his wife. They were the sweetest people to their Viennese child, and their home stands in Fritz's memory as the epitome of idyll and harmony.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Gunnar BjörnstrandGenres: Comedy

Plot Summary

A humorous tale centered around a young boy who is mistakenly believed to be the heir to a vast fortune. Chaos ensues as various characters try to exploit the situation, leading to comical misunderstandings and a journey of self-discovery for the boy.

Critical Reception

As a lighthearted comedy from the early 1940s, 'Wienerbarnet' was generally received with mild amusement by audiences of its time. Critics often noted its predictable plot but praised its charming performances and family-friendly appeal. It remains a nostalgic piece of Swedish cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its innocent humor and heartwarming portrayal of childhood.

  • Appreciated for the lighthearted performances of its cast.

  • Noted as a simple, feel-good film suitable for family viewing.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'Wienerbarnet' is largely based on its historical context, with many appreciating its old-fashioned charm and simplicity. It's often viewed as a pleasant, if somewhat dated, comedy.

Fun Fact

The film was a significant early role for Gunnar Björnstrand, who would later become a celebrated actor in Ingmar Bergman's films.

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