Watch Oh Rosalinda!

Oh Rosalinda! is a 1955 British musical comedy film directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. It was released in the United States under the title 'The Gay Lady'. The film is a satirical take on Johann Strauss II's opera Die Fledermaus and takes place in post-World War II Vienna. Set against a backdrop of political turmoil and unrest, Oh Rosalinda! follows the story of British army officer Captain Alfred Westerman (Michael Redgrave). He is sent to Vienna and tasked with overseeing the rebuilding of Austria's economy after the war. Westerman is supposed to keep a low profile and avoid any distractions, but he soon finds himself falling in love with a beautiful cabaret dancer named Rosalinda (Ludmilla Tcherina).

However, Rosalinda is not the only woman vying for Westerman's attention. He also finds himself pursued by his superior officer's wife, Edith (Mel Ferrer), who wants nothing more than to escape her dull and boring life and be with the dashing Captain.

As the story progresses, we see a series of mistaken identities and misunderstandings that threaten to derail Westerman's plans for the future. Rosalinda's jealous ex-lover, a Soviet agent, and a group of Austrian resistance fighters all get caught up in the comical web of confusion and miscommunication.

The film features a series of comedic musical numbers that take place in various locations throughout Vienna. From the opulent ballrooms of the upper class to the seedy back alleys of the city's red-light district, Oh Rosalinda! captures the vibrant and diverse culture of post-war Vienna.

One of the most memorable scenes in the film takes place in a crowded subway station. Westerman, dressed in drag, tries to sneak past a group of Soviet agents who are on his tail. As the agents close in, Westerman must improvise and sing his way out of danger, resulting in a hilarious and chaotic chase through the tunnels of the subway system.

Throughout the film, the characters must navigate the complex political landscape of post-war Europe. The Russians are trying to assert their dominance over the Austrians while the British and Americans attempt to broker a peace deal. The tensions and rivalries between these different factions add an extra layer of intrigue and humor to the story.

Oh Rosalinda! is a clever and entertaining musical comedy that captures the essence of post-war Vienna. The film features standout performances from a talented cast, including Michael Redgrave, Mel Ferrer, and Ludmilla Tcherina. With its catchy musical numbers and witty script, Oh Rosalinda! is a delightful romp through a bygone era.