Watch Waltzes From Vienna: Classic Alfred Hitchcock Movie

Waltzes from Vienna is a classic musical comedy film from Alfred Hitchcock, released in 1934. The movie is set in Vienna in the year 1868, and is loosely based on the life of Austrian composer Johann Strauss II. The story revolves around Strauss (played by Esmond Knight), who is struggling to gain recognition and acceptance from the Viennese elite. He is constantly overshadowed by his father, Johann Strauss I (Edmund Gwenn), who is regarded as the premier composer of waltzes in Vienna. Despite this, Strauss is determined to make a name for himself and prove his worth as a composer.

Strauss finds his opportunity when he is commissioned to write a new waltz for the upcoming annual city ball. However, unbeknownst to him, his father has also been commissioned to write a waltz for the same event. The competition between father and son is set in motion, as they each strive to produce the most captivating waltz of the night.

Along the way, Strauss becomes romantically involved with a young girl named Rasi (Jessie Matthews), who is the daughter of his father's biggest rival. Their relationship is forbidden due to their families' longstanding feud, but they cannot deny their feelings for each other.

As the night of the ball approaches, tensions rise between father and son, and secrets are revealed that threaten to tear the Strauss family apart. The climax of the film takes place during the ball, where the two waltzes are played for the first time in front of the Vienna elite. The audience holds their breath as they wait for the verdict on which waltz is the superior one.

Waltzes from Vienna is not a typical Alfred Hitchcock film, as it is a departure from his usual thriller and suspense genre. Instead, it is a light-hearted musical comedy that showcases Hitchcock's versatility as a filmmaker. The movie features delightful music and choreography, particularly the iconic "Blue Danube" sequence.

The cast of the film is excellent, with Esmond Knight delivering a convincing portrayal of Johann Strauss II as a passionate, but insecure composer. Jessie Matthews is charming as Rasi, and her chemistry with Knight is palpable onscreen. Edmund Gwenn's portrayal of Johann Strauss I is particularly notable, as he brings a depth and gravitas to the character that elevates the film beyond a mere musical frolic.

While the film may not be as well known as some of Hitchcock's more famous works, it deserves recognition for its artistry and the director's skill in bringing the story to life. The film showcases Hitchcock's ability to blend genres seamlessly, as well as his talent for visual storytelling.

Overall, Waltzes from Vienna is a delightful musical comedy that will uplift and entertain audiences. Its timeless story of love, rivalry, and family drama is sure to resonate with viewers of all ages. While it may not be Hitchcock's most well-known film, it is a testament to his versatility as a filmmaker and his skill in telling compelling stories.

Waltzes From Vienna: Classic Alfred Hitchcock Movie is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes.