Watch Finances Of The Grand Duke

Finances Of The Grand Duke is a 1924 German silent comedy film directed by F.W. Murnau, who is best known for his seminal horror film, Nosferatu. The film stars Harry Liedtke, Mady Christians, and Robert Scholtz in the leading roles. The story follows the misadventures of a charming, carefree prince who finds himself in possession of a vast fortune, thanks to a benefactor who lays out a bizarre set of conditions for him to inherit it. The prince must spend all of his money by a certain date, without buying anything permanent or giving it away. The film is a delightful romp through the European countryside, as the prince tries to imbibe and spend as much as he can, while avoiding the attentions of various schemers who are out to get him.

The film begins with the introduction of the Grand Duke of Abacco, played by Harry Liedtke, who lives a life of carefree indulgence in his idyllic Alpine kingdom, aided by his amorous assistant, Hohensee (Robert Scholtz). One day, the Grand Duke learns that a distant relative, a wealthy industrialist, has died and left him his entire fortune, on the condition that he spend one million dollars in a single month, without giving anything away, and without acquiring anything that cannot be consumed or destroyed. The Grand Duke is initially elated at the news, but soon realizes that the task ahead of him is easier said than done.

The Grand Duke embarks on a wild spending spree, throwing extravagant parties and buying up everything in sight. He spends his money on horse races, fireworks, and gambling, always accompanied by his loyal aide, Hohensee. But as the deadline draws near, the Grand Duke begins to panic, realizing that he is nowhere near the million-dollar mark. He turns to various dubious means of making quick money, culminating in a risky scheme to steal back the diamond necklace he had given to a wealthy widow, Madame Ilka (played by the stunning Mady Christians), in exchange for a loan.

The film is filled with memorable characters, including the Grand Duke's loyal valet, Josef (played by Julius Falkenstein), who tries to rein in his master's wild spending, and the various hangers-on who trail after him, hoping for a handout. There are also a host of villains, including the grasping widow, Madame Ilka, and her nefarious partner in crime, Prisner (played by Max Schreck, of Nosferatu fame), who is always lurking in the shadows.

The film is a showcase for Murnau's mastery of visual storytelling, with many inventive shots and camera angles that add to the film's comic tone. There are countless sight gags and pratfalls, as well as some surprisingly powerful moments, particularly in the scenes between the Grand Duke and Madame Ilka, which hint at a deeper emotional connection between them. The film also features a lively and engaging musical score, which underscores the action and adds to the film's overall charm.

In many ways, Finances Of The Grand Duke is a quintessential silent comedy, with all of the humor, romance, and zaniness that audiences of the time expected. But it is also a groundbreaking film in many ways, particularly in its use of location shooting and outdoor scenes. The film was shot on location in Austria, giving it a sense of authenticity and naturalism that was rare for a silent film of the time. It also features some innovative special effects, particularly in the climactic scene involving a volcanic eruption.

Overall, Finances Of The Grand Duke is a delightful and entertaining film, filled with memorable characters, witty gags, and stunning scenery. It is a testament to Murnau's talent as a filmmaker, as well as to the enduring appeal of silent comedy. Whether you are a fan of classic cinema or simply looking for an enjoyable and engaging film, Finances Of The Grand Duke is well worth a watch.

Finances Of The Grand Duke is a 1924 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.