Watch The Red Danube

The Red Danube is a 1949 drama film directed by George Sidney and stars Walter Pidgeon, Ethel Barrymore, and Peter Lawford. The film is set in post-World War II Vienna, where the city is divided into four zones, each being controlled by the Allied powers. Major John 'Twingo' McPhimister, played by Pidgeon, is a British officer who is tasked with supervising the repatriation of Soviet prisoners of war. Among these prisoners is ballerina Olga Alexandrova, played by Janet Leigh, who has been accused of espionage. Major McPhimister is tasked with investigating these allegations against her.

The Red Danube explores the political tensions of post-World War II Vienna, as the Allies attempt to protect their interests in a city still reeling from the devastation of war. The struggle for power and control is evident throughout the film, as Major McPhimister must navigate the complex web of alliances between the Soviet Union, the United States, and Great Britain.

The film also highlights the personal struggles of its characters, as they try to come to terms with their own experiences of the war. For Major McPhimister, it is the loss of his family during the bombing of London. For Olga, it is the trauma of being accused of espionage and the fear of what will happen to her if the allegations are found to be true.

The Red Danube is a story of redemption and hope, as the characters try to move forward from the pain and destruction of the war. The film showcases the strength of the human spirit, as the characters find ways to overcome their hardships and rebuild their lives.

The performances of the film's lead actors are outstanding. Pidgeon delivers a nuanced and powerful performance as Major McPhimister, displaying both strength and vulnerability as he tries to navigate the complex political landscape of post-war Vienna. Barrymore is also outstanding as Countess Degenfeld, a woman who has lost everything but still fights to maintain her dignity and her sense of purpose.

Peter Lawford brings charm and wit to the film as Colonel Piniev, a Soviet officer who develops a complicated friendship with Major McPhimister. Leigh also delivers a standout performance as Olga, showing both strength and vulnerability as she fights to clear her name and rebuild her life.

The Red Danube features stunning cinematography and production design, capturing the grandeur and beauty of Vienna even in the midst of its post-war struggles. The film's haunting score by Miklós Rózsa also adds to its emotional depth and power.

Overall, The Red Danube is a compelling and thought-provoking drama that explores the post-war struggles of a city and its people. The film offers a glimpse into the complex political landscape of post-World War II Europe and the personal struggles of those who lived through it. With its outstanding performances, stunning cinematography, and powerful themes, The Red Danube is a true classic of the era.

The Red Danube is a 1949 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 59 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.