Cast
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Christian Wolff
as Erbprinz Karl-Heinrich
Gert Fröbe
as Doktor Jüttner
Sabine Sinjen
as Käthi
Ernst Stahl-Nachbaur
as Fürst von Sachsen-Karlsburg
Heinrich Gretler
as Gastwirt Rüder
Rudolf Vogel
as Kammerdiener Lutz
Walter Bluhm
as Diener Schölermann
Siegfried Schürenberg
as Staatsminister Haugk
Tilo von Berlepsch
as Kammerherr von Metzing
Harry Meyen
as Graf Detlev von Asterberg
Wolfgang Eichberger
as Kammerherr von Feldbach
Hannelore Elsner
as Helene, Serviermädchen
Gerd Frickhöffer
as Kammerherr von Breitenberg
Walter Janssen
as Hofmarschall im Schloss Karlsburg
Anneliese Würtz
as Frau Rüder
Crew
Director
- Ernst Marischka
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Old Heidelberg examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Ernst Marischka brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1959, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Old Heidelberg took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 155 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1959, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: December 21, 1959
- Runtime: 1h 48m