The Great Waltz (1938)






In 1845 Vienna, Johann Strauss II, also known as "Jonahi" to his friends, is a waltz composer and performer at a time when waltzes are not considered proper society music. After he is fired from his bank job for his preoccupation with composing, he decides to form an orchestra and pursue his passion. Famous opera singers, including Carla Donner, discover Johann's music and introduce it to the masses, royalty, and music publisher Julius Hofbauer. This leads to Johann becoming the toast of Vienna. With his newfound fame, Johann's life is altered, including his involvement in the European Revolutions. He finds himself torn between his love for his faithful wife, Poldi Vogelhuber, and his more passionate but destructive love for Carla Donner, who is also involved with Count Anton Hohenfried.


Film programs

Illustrierte Film Bühne nr. 517