Das Schloß in Flandern

Seeing the whole film online, which can be found under its German title, 'Das Schloss in Flandern' is something of a different film for Marta Eggerth. Often seen in comedy/romance/musical/operetta, 'Das Schloss in Flandern' is more a Gothic drama romance set to music.

And a good change of pace it is too. Not one of Eggerth's best, but a very pleasant diversion and one where Eggerth does shine. Have remarked more than once recently that Eggerth is much better in lead roles singing in opera/operetta-style music than when she was trying too hard in supporting roles in the few Hollywood films she featured in singing music that really didn't suit her voice. That is all dependent though on what your opinion on Eggerth is, personally after seeing more of her stuff she has grown on me.

Eggerth radiates charm and also has gusto and at sometimes a haunting intensity. Her voice is occasionally metallic, but mostly clear as crystal and very much listenable. The music suits her voice perfectly, and is fine music in its own right with a lot of buoyancy and nuance that Eggerth does wonders bringing out.

'Das Schloss in Flandern' has an above average supporting cast, they performed with charm, grace and like they were enjoying themselves, always allowing her to shine but never upstaging her.

Production values are suitably sumptuous, also with a creepy Gothic touch, while not being overly elaborate, never static either. The direction is competent if not perhaps distinguished at times, and the characters have their charms.

Where 'Das Schloss in Flandern' is at its weakest is the story, which is a little creaky in the pacing and occasionally feels cobbled together structurally. The script does have some nice moments, but also creaks at times and doesn't flow quite as well as it could have done.

Otherwise, it is a nice film and worth checking out. 8/10 Bethany Cox