The Count of Luxemburg (1957 film)

The Count of Luxemburg is a West German musical comedy film released in 1957. Directed by Werner Jacobs, it is based on the operetta of the same name by Franz Lehár. The film stars Gerhard Riedmann as Count René of Luxemburg, and Margit Schramm as Angela Didier.

The plot revolves around the Count, who is secretly married to Angela in a fake ceremony orchestrated by Prince Basil Basiloff. The Prince, seeking to prevent a scandal surrounding his own intended bride, the Grand Duchess, needs to temporarily "marry off" the Count. The Count and Angela are told to remain apart for three months, after which they will divorce and the Count will be free. However, neither knows the identity of their spouse. During the separation, both the Count and Angela eventually meet and fall in love, unaware that they are already legally, albeit fraudulently, married. The film follows their romantic entanglements and eventual discovery of the truth, culminating in a resolution that allows them to be happily together.

The film features popular songs from Lehár's operetta, including "Bist du's, lachendes Glück," "Jugend ist trunk'ne Torheit," and "Lieber, holder Strohmann." It is known for its lighthearted tone, romantic storyline, and musical performances. The film was one of several adaptations of The Count of Luxemburg produced over the years, highlighting the enduring popularity of the operetta. While not critically acclaimed, it was a commercially successful picture and remains a notable example of post-war German musical cinema.