Peter (1934 film)

Peter is a 1934 German musical comedy film directed by Hermann Kosterlitz (who later became known as Henry Koster in Hollywood) and starring Franciska Gaal, Otto Wallburg, and Hans Brausewetter. It was produced by Joe Pasternak.

The film follows the story of Eva, a young woman who, after losing her job and home, decides to disguise herself as a boy named Peter in order to find work and navigate the world more easily. She takes on various odd jobs, including working as a stable boy and later as an assistant to a magician. Her male disguise leads to a series of humorous misunderstandings and adventures, especially when romantic feelings begin to develop between her and the various men she encounters, who are initially unaware of her true gender. The film explores themes of identity, independence, and the societal roles of men and women in a lighthearted, comedic manner.

  • Directed by: Hermann Kosterlitz
  • Written by: Felix Salten (story), Hermann Kosterlitz, Frank Thiess
  • Starring: Franciska Gaal, Otto Wallburg, Hans Brausewetter, RenĂ©e Stobrawa
  • Music by: Nicholas Brodzsky
  • Cinematography: Willy Goldberger
  • Release date: 1934
  • Running time: 80 minutes
  • Country: Germany
  • Language: German
  • Genre: Musical comedy

"Peter" was one of the last films Kosterlitz directed in Germany before he, along with many other Jewish filmmakers and artists, emigrated from the country due to the rise of the Nazi regime. Franciska Gaal, a Hungarian actress, was a popular star in German-language cinema during the early 1930s. The film showcases the popular musical comedy style prevalent in German cinema of the era, combining light entertainment with a touch of social commentary.

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