Watch Almost Angels

Almost Angels is a whimsical and heartwarming film about the adventures of two boys in the Vienna Boys' Choir. The story begins with young Peter Siebert (played by Sean Scully) auditioning for the prestigious choir, despite the misgivings of his father who is skeptical about the value of music education. Soon after Peter joins the choir, he befriends a fellow chorister named Toni Fiala (played by Vincent Winter), who becomes his mentor and guide to the idiosyncrasies of choir life.

Set against the backdrop of Vienna's stunning architecture and rich history, Almost Angels immerses the audience in the world of choral music in the early 1960s. The film captures the essence of the city's cultural heritage, with stunning shots of landmarks such as the St. Stephen's Cathedral and the State Opera House. The music of the Vienna Boys' Choir features prominently throughout the film, with hauntingly beautiful renditions of classical pieces such as Mozart's "Ave Verum Corpus" and Schubert's "Die Forelle."

As Peter and Toni navigate the challenges of choir life, they must contend with strict discipline and the constant pursuit of perfection demanded by the choir's director, Professor Arturo Skyler (played by Hans Holt). Despite the pressures, the boys develop a deep love for music and a bond that transcends language barriers and cultural differences. They form a close-knit group of friends within the choir, with delightful scenes of their antics and misadventures.

The arrival of a new chorister, Bubi Steiner (played by Peter Weck), adds a new dimension to the story. Bubi is a talented musician and a bit of a rebel, with a penchant for jazz and rock and roll. His arrival causes a stir among the other choristers, who are fascinated by his nonconformist ways. Bubi quickly bonds with Peter and Toni, and the three of them embark on a hilarious plan to sneak out of the choir school to attend a jazz concert.

Almost Angels is a charming coming-of-age story that explores the power of music to bring people together. The film is rich with detail, capturing the essence of Viennese culture and traditions. The young actors deliver nuanced performances, especially Vincent Winter, who shines as the brooding and passionate Toni. The film is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the mood and atmosphere of the city. The soundtrack is a delightful blend of classical and modern music, creating a unique and memorable experience.

Overall, Almost Angels is a delightful and heartwarming film that will appeal to audiences of all ages. It is a tale of friendship, music, and the magic of finding your place in the world. The film's themes of perseverance, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence are timeless, making it a classic that still resonates today.

Almost Angels is a 1962 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.