Der Blaufuchs

After the steamy dramas Zarah Leander made with Detlef Sierck in 1937, it was decided that her next film would be a light social comedy directed by Viktor Turžanskij. But not an ordinary comedy. It was to be a new adaptation of the classic Hungarian play "A kék róka" by Ferenc Herczeg from 1917. The play and the films offered very progressive views on relationships and marriage in general for their time. In the adaptation with the divine Zarah, we follow her flirtation with Willy Birgel, the epitome of a modern man who doesn't cling to the past, has a great car, goes to a golf club, has a yacht and is, last but not least, a pilot. The romance hints at one small detail - our protagonist is married to a professor played by Paul Hörbiger, who is only interested in freshwater fish and doesn't pay much attention to his wife. Therefore, there is nothing to prevent him from being lured into the arms of a young modiste (Jane Tilden). Thanks to the supporting storyline, represented by one endearingly effeminate tenor, Zarah has the opportunity to belt out some of the best songs she sang in the 1930s, especially the breezy hit "Kann denn Liebe Sünde sein?" In addition, Zarah showcases a variety of exquisite models, sports costumes, gowns or home robes or large evening gowns throughout the film. It's a real show and above all a feast for the eyes. All in all, it's a great contrast to her previous work, especially when her pairing with Birgel followed such dramatic situations as we saw in To New Shores. (20.04.2021)