ViennaFilm 1896-1976 (1977)

ViennaFilm 1896-1976 Poster
Original Title: Wienfilm 1896-1976

This film is a kind of anthology about Vienna, from the invention of film to the present day. The aim is to break down the usual clichéd "image of Vienna" such as that found in the traditional "Vienna Film" by juxtaposing documentary footage, newly shot material and subjective sequences created by various artists. Individual, self-contained sections of the film gain new meaning within the context of historical material. Familiar sites appear estranged when edited together with historical scenes. Other scenes appear like a persiflage or satirical. The film does not incorporate any commentary whatsoever. It is a collage of diverse materials aimed at conveying a distanced image of Vienna to the viewer

Film Introduction
The film "ViennaFilm 1896-1976", produced and released in 1977, is a special blend of initial video footage, historical occasions, and socio-political commentary. Directed by Ernst Schmidt Jr., the motion picture offers a sequential study of Austria's cinematic history from its beginning in 1896 till 1976, concentrating on the development and advancement of the Austrian movie industry, with Vienna as its centerpiece.

Historic Preview
The motion picture begins in the late 1800s, showcasing the pioneer work of the Skladanowsky bros, who are credited with creating a few of the earliest film projectors. The primary material during these initial years consisted primarily of silent movies portraying daily life scenes, a significant topic for the Viennese population. As the movie progresses, the changing techniques of the movie industry aligning with the developing socio-political circumstances become apparent.

World War Era
A significant part of the movie is committed to the World Wars age, supplying excerpts and glimpses into Nazi propaganda movies produced in Vienna. The imagery is frequently chilling and exposes making use of movie as a tool in spreading out political ideologies. It likewise addresses the decade of declination in Austrian movie theater post World War II.

Cinematic Evolution and the New Wave
In its subsequent segments, "ViennaFilm 1896-- 1976" addresses the development and maturation of Austrian movie theater, moving towards more experimenting with stories and designs. It provides the increase of the New Wave age in Austrian cinema, highlighting impactful films like 'The Last Bridge' and 'The Pedestrian'.

Cultural Representation and Women in Cinema
The film also completely examines the cultural effect cinema had on society, especially in relation to Vienna and its unique atmosphere of creative pastiche. Austrian culture's representation is seen throughout, from imperial balls, Heuriger red wine taverns, to operettas and cabarets. The movie also checks out ladies's developing role and representation in Austrian cinema, evidencing the slowly altering societal norms.

Conclusion and Impact
Toward the end, the movie supplies glimpses of the future, showcasing the avant-garde movies of the 1970s. The documentary highlights the marked shift in cinematic design, thematic content, and the welcome of a more international viewpoint.

In summary, "ViennaFilm 1896-1976" is an extensive journey through eighty years of Austrian movie theater, matching Vienna's historical occasions, cultural shifts, and social improvements throughout this period. The film uses carefully selected footage and review to provide an informative overview of the development of Austrian movie market and its worldwide standing.

Top Cast

  • Friedrich Achleitner
    Self
  • Marc Adrian
    Self
  • H.C. Artmann
    Self
  • Helmut Benedict
    Self
  • Moucle Blackout
    Self
  • Joe Berger
    Wiener
  • Charlie Chaplin (small)
    Charlie Chaplin
    Self (archive footage)
  • Elfriede Datzig (small)
    Elfriede Datzig
    Self
  • Irina David
    Self
  • Engelbert Dollfuß (small)
    Engelbert Dollfuß
    Self (archive footage)
  • Emperor Franz Josef
    Self (archive footage)