Waltz War (1933)
A charming German musical comedy pitting waltz king Joseph Lanner against the rising Johann Strauss, with rivalry, romance, and reconciliation.
Waltz War - Movie Information
Waltz War - Plot
The quarrel between the waltz king Joseph Lanner and his still unknown violinist Johann Strauss. It comes to a break. Strauss is engaged in London and has his first successes there. Thanks to the initially unfortunate intervention of Lanner's daughter, a reconciliation is finally achieved.
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Waltz War - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Ludwig Berger
Main Cast
- Renate Müller
- Willy Fritsch
- Anton Walbrook
- Paul Hörbiger
- Theo Lingen
- Rosy Barsony
- Hanna Waag
- Heinz von Cleve
- Trude Brionne
- Karl Stepanek
Writers
- Robert Liebmann
- Hans Müller
Producers
- Günther Stapenhorst
Waltz War - FAQs
What is Waltz War about?
Waltz War follows the turbulent rivalry between waltz king Joseph Lanner and his ambitious young violinist Johann Strauss. After a dramatic falling-out, Strauss heads to London and finds his own fame, before Lanner's spirited daughter helps bring the two musical giants back together in a warm reconciliation.
Who are the main actors in Waltz War?
The film stars Renate Müller as Kati Lanner and Willy Fritsch as Pauker Gustl, with Anton Walbrook playing Johann Strauss and Paul Hörbiger as Josef Lanner. Theo Lingen, Rosy Barsony, and Hanna Waag round out a strong ensemble cast.
Is Waltz War based on a true story?
Waltz War is loosely inspired by the real-life relationship between composers Joseph Lanner and Johann Strauss I, who were genuine rivals in 19th-century Vienna. While the film dramatizes and fictionalizes their conflict for entertainment, both figures were historically significant pioneers of Viennese waltz music.
Who directed Waltz War?
Waltz War was directed by Ludwig Berger, a German filmmaker known for his elegant visual style and his work in both European and Hollywood productions. Berger brought a light, musical touch to this UFA production, making it a charming showcase of 1930s German cinema.
When was Waltz War released?
Waltz War had its German release on October 3, 1933. Produced by UFA, one of Germany's most prestigious studios of the era, the film arrived during a vibrant period for German musical cinema and quickly found an audience drawn to its blend of comedy and classical music.
What genre is Waltz War?
Waltz War is a musical comedy. It blends lighthearted humor with a rich soundtrack rooted in the Viennese waltz tradition, making it an entertaining mix of character-driven comedy and classical music celebration — a combination that was very popular in 1930s European cinema.
How long is Waltz War?
Waltz War runs for 93 minutes, or about 1 hour and 33 minutes. It's a brisk, well-paced film that balances its comedic storyline with musical performances, keeping things lively throughout without overstaying its welcome.
What was Anton Walbrook's role in Waltz War?
Anton Walbrook — then still known by his birth name Adolf Wohlbrück — plays Johann Strauss in the film. It was one of his notable early roles before he became an international star. His portrayal of the ambitious young composer helped establish his reputation as a charismatic leading man in European cinema.
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