Watch The Great Waltz

The Great Waltz is a musical biopic film from 1938 directed by Julien Duvivier. The movie tells the story of the life of Johann Strauss II, the famous composer known as the "King of the Waltz." The film begins in the early days of Strauss' life, when he was working as an uninspired bank clerk. He is convinced by his father, Johann Strauss I, to leave his job and pursue a career in music, following in the family tradition. Strauss II's father is portrayed as a demanding and sometimes unaffectionate father, who ultimately comes to appreciate his son's success as a composer.

Strauss II's road to success is a rocky one, as his early works aren't immediately successful. However, he ultimately finds his stride and becomes one of Vienna's most celebrated composers, famous for his waltzes. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with pianist and singer Poldi Vogelhuber, portrayed by Miliza Korjus. The two have a tumultuous relationship, eventually marrying only after the intervention of Strauss' father.

The film is filled with spectacular musical numbers, including performances of Strauss' most famous compositions, such as "The Blue Danube" and "Tales from the Vienna Woods." The dance sequences are extravagantly staged, with numerous costumed dancers swirling across the screen. The film's art direction and costume design are also exceptional, creating the feel of turn-of-the-century Vienna in vivid detail.

Luise Rainer gives a strong performance as Strauss II's long-suffering wife, who eventually comes to appreciate her husband's talent and devotion to his music. Fernand Gravey is well cast as the charming and charismatic Strauss II, who is dedicated to his craft but also struggles with his own artistic insecurities. Miliza Korjus steals the show in her musical numbers, proving herself to be a talented singer as well as an accomplished actress.

One of the most memorable scenes in the film takes place at a lavish ball, where Strauss II is challenged to create a new waltz on the spot. The composer rises to the challenge, producing the instantly classic "Tales from the Vienna Woods" while the dancers spin around him. It's a memorable moment that highlights the magic and creativity of the composer, as well as the joy of a well-executed waltz.

Overall, The Great Waltz is an enjoyable and lavish musical that will delight fans of classic Hollywood film. The movie's lush visuals and memorable musical numbers make it a treat for the eyes and the ears, while the strong performances by the cast give the story an emotional weight. As a biopic, the film stays true to the story of the life of Johann Strauss II, while still providing dazzling entertainment for its audience.

The Great Waltz is a 1938 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.