Watch Tales from the Vienna Woods

Tales from the Vienna Woods (original title: Geschichten aus dem Wienerwald) is a 1979 film directed by Maximilian Schell, based on the play of the same name by Ödön von Horváth. The film is a tragicomedy that explores the lives of various characters living in Vienna during the 1920s. The plot is divided into four main storylines, each of which focuses on a different character's experiences in the city. First, there is Alfred (Alfred Edel), a jovial butcher who dreams of becoming a famous singer. When his business suffers due to the Depression, he seeks solace in the arms of a prostitute named Marianne (Birgit Doll). Second, there is Oskar (Helmuth Lohner), a wealthy landowner who is engaged to the beautiful Valerie (Silvia Fenz). However, their relationship is threatened by his mother (Elisabeth Orth), who disapproves of Valerie's lower social status. Third, there is Valerie's unemployed brother (Paulus Manker), who is struggling to find his place in the world. Finally, there is Philomena (Sunnyi Melles), a pregnant woman who is forced to marry a man she doesn't love.

Along with these main storylines, the film contains a number of smaller plots and subplots that intersect and overlap with each other. The result is a richly textured portrait of a city in flux, where old traditions are being challenged by new ideas and social norms are constantly shifting.

One of the most striking things about the film is its visual style. Schell employs a number of unconventional camera techniques, such as long takes, extreme close-ups, and handheld shots, that give the film a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The film's use of naturalistic lighting and unglamorous locations also contribute to its gritty, realistic feel.

Despite its tragicomic tone, the film is ultimately a bleak portrait of a society in crisis. The characters struggle with poverty, unemployment, and social inequality, and their attempts to find happiness are often thwarted by their own flawed choices and circumstances beyond their control. However, there is also a sense of resilience and survival in their struggles, as they continue to persevere in the face of adversity.

Overall, Tales from the Vienna Woods is a powerful and thought-provoking film that skillfully blends humor and tragedy to create a nuanced portrait of a society in flux. Its strong performances, inventive visual style, and complex characters make it a must-see for fans of European cinema.

Tales from the Vienna Woods is a 1999 documentary with a runtime of 48 minutes.