Dreamily tongue-in-cheek romantic concoction dips back lovingly into the past--Vienna, circa 1900--to travel through the circular realm of love's finest hours, connecting and sweeping up its players in a carousel of lighthearted whimsy. Dashing Anton Walbrook is a singing, cigarette-smoking master of ceremonies, one who appears to perceive the art of loving as a nostalgic pastime. Max Ophüls directed and co-adapted Arthur Schnitzler's play "Reigen", and his touch is valentine-fresh while viewing love through a rose-colored crystal ball. The happy/sad theme music by Oscar Straus compliments the phony-theatrical backdrop and, in the beginning, there are some very sweet and funny couplings. Unfortunately, the film is overlong and seems preconceived to attract attention with its ensemble star cast (everyone gets their moment in the spotlight, which comes off rather precious). Moments remain magical, even though a detached undercurrent runs throughout, eventually turning the characters into bemused mannequins. Two Oscar nominations: Best Screenplay for Jacques Natanson and Max Ophüls and Best Art Direction, Black-and-White. BAFTA winner for Best Film from any Source (France). Remade by Roger Vadim in 1964. **1/2 from ****
Review of La Ronde
