Maria Theresa

It is not spectacular but a honest and decent work. The historical accuracy is not the lead virtue but its message is well presented. Its motivational side is more significant than the status of chronic of a remarkable reign. Good acting, the story has more the gift to remind other biographical movies of the last decades. It is a large portrait of Maria Theresa , in basic colors, in nice nuances , so it is not real fair to critic it very hard or to have high expectations. Marie - Luise Stockinger gives a beautiful performance in the lead role but, not surprising, the star remains, for correct image of Eugen of Savoia , Karl Markovics. Short, an impressive "tour de force" of Central European cinematography.

First of all, this movie is not historically accurate, e.g. the real Karl VI. died from either mushroom poisoning or an unknown disease, in the movie he had a hunting accident. If you want to learn about history, better watch a documentary or read a book. This movie concentrates on the person of Maria Theresia, her personal experiences and her feelings. It is not easy to judge the mnovie as a drama. The story largely follows historic events, so there is little room for surprises or interesting side-plots. At the time, people at the court had to act stiff which didn't leave much room for the actors to show their skills. Whenever possible, they did a decent job.

Summary: Not a must see for those interested in the history or those who want to see a good drama, but it's not too bad either. Watch it when you are bored and there is nothing better on.

Fantastic European Cooproduction, with excellent story and fantastic European actors from different countries. And the most important: it shows the history and feelings of people, not like the Hollywood bs full from aggressivity and revenge.

Excellent motivational movie, great actors and great music. If you wish to know what was it that held together the Austrian Empire in the period 1740 - 1918, well you can find the answer in the legacy of Maria Theresia: her faith, courage, honesty, sense of justice, hard work and humanity of Maria Theresia. And the business spirit of her husband, the Duke of Toscany. This movie is a celebration of life and blessings that follow from a pure heart. Watched it already five times. Very witty as well: Maria Theresia "Nobody has asked for my hand yet", the butler in response "Ah, they'll wed you in the end, don't warry your Highness. The red carpet is a bigger problem. It's too short..."

Finally we have a great production about this great woman and empress. With a great historical accuracy, not like Hollywood productions were Maria Theresa could represented like a black woman and the german nobility like nazis or chinese people and all the characters LGTB people!