Fond memories…Das Wirtshaus im Spessart

You know those movies you watched years and years ago? The ones you vaguely remember, but with fondness? Das Wirtshaus im Spessart (1958) is one of those. I used to watch it over and over at a friend’s house when I was small. I think the notion of a girl dressed as a boy holding her own against a gang of robbers holds a little magic for me too.

Then, a few years back I was doing  my usual procrastination…do I buy the DVD, don’t I, do I, don’t…oh, it’s no longer available. I should have…

Last year a restored version came out and I jumped at the opportunity to add it to my collection. And finally, a few weeks back watched it.

It has Countess Franziska (Liselotte Pulver) kidnapped (well, hmmm…) by a bunch of robbers for ransom money which her father, stinking rich as he is, refuses pay. Taking things into her own hands in order to save ‘herself’ and her companions, she ‘infiltrates’ the robbers’ hideout and somewhere along the line…of course…falls in love with the leader (Carlos Thompson).

It is still really sweet and had me smiling throughout –  as much at the story as at the sometimes cheesy sets and acting. It is, after all, an old movie and so I appreciate the movie-making from back then. So, if you’re in the mood for something light and fun and just a little silly, take some time to enjoy Das Wirtshaus im Spessart.