Agreeable, old-fashioned but credible melodrama with a likable script that avoids cliches to keep the interest. Despite some shortcomings (editing for instance is only so-so) good stuff for to lean back and enjoy. Obviously meant as Problemfilm (single woman with child & marriage trouble due too WW2) but these aspects are easy to skip for yourself and thus to concentrate on the melodrama.
Erfuht's direction lacks the talent to make into something really special, but there are moments where he so to speak surpasses himself. A wonderful moment for instance is a totally unexpected and dramatic turn in the plot (it would be a spoiler to write what it is) about 15 minutes before the ending; here he is in full control of the atmosphere keeping the viewer on the dge of his seat. In this sequence there is also good cinematography with the camera focusing and following the Hilde Krahl character in all her distress. Seeing that scene it is a shame that the complete film is good routine and good entertainment, but not more than that; what would someone like Douglas Sirk have done with this material?
Erfuhrt is supported by a good cast with that splendid actress Hilde Krahl acting heart and soul and Hans Söhnker in one of his best roles. Paul Hörbiger is fine in a small part as a toyshop keeper. I was amazed at seeing Rudolf Foster already being a very nice old man: nothing of his earlier menacing arrogance has remained.
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