APRIL 1st, 2000 (1952) Hilde Krahl, Josef Meinrad, Judith Holzmeister, Waltraut Haas, Elisabeth Stemberger. In the year 2000 the world is run by the World Global Union. Smaller countries are still allowed to have their own puppet governments, but none have total freedom—that is, until Austria’s new President declares his country’s freedom. But within hours WGU forces are streaking toward Austria. They arrive in a fantastic array of spaceships carrying space-suited troops, all of whom have ray guns. The lovely female leader of the WGU lands in one of the spaceships and puts the new president on trial for political misdeeds. The president, though, strives to convince her of Austria’s peaceful intentions, harkening back to the peaceful achievements in Austrian history. Slowly but surely he begins to win her over and also show his obvious affections. Although this film has its share of serious moments, it is essentially a sci-fi satire, with broad performances, gaudy special effects, and many charming moments. It’s a dazzling film to look at and there are many grand musical numbers. With English subtitles. From 35mm.
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