Ragazze viennesi

This film is losely based on the life of Austrian composer Carl Michael Ziehrer. Ziehrer works his way up from being a salesman in his father's hat-shop to being an internationally recognized composer and conductor. Johann Strass, on the height of fame, is Zieher's idol and arch-rival. This film was the first colour production of the WIEN FILM and was shot on location during the time of the worst air raids in 1943/44. The lavish costumes and sets are astonishing and very eye-pleasing. Willy Forst, master of musicals set in old Vienna, directs and plays the title role. He does it with charm, although he really shouldn't sing. The supporing roles are well cast, especially Hans Moser in the role of Ziehrers devoted companion. Watch out for a very young Curt Jurgens in one of his first appearances in movies. This production was one of the last big budget (Filmoperette)-musicals set in 19th century Vienna. Even all this years it is worth watching and makes a good feature for a Saturday matinee. A must for fans of romantic costume dramas.