The Upright Sinner 1931
In Fritz Kortner's razor-sharp 1931 comedy *The Upright Sinner*, Max Pallenberg stars as Leopold Pichler, a meticulous and dutiful bank cashier whose life spirals into chaos when a routine errand spirals out of control.
Director: Fritz Kortner
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Upright Sinner (1931) about?
The film follows Leopold Pichler, a disciplined bank cashier tasked with retrieving a large sum of money for his boss's urgent trip. A series of mishaps delay his return, leaving the boss stranded in Vienna without funds and Leopold racing against time to rectify the situation.
Who directed The Upright Sinner?
Fritz Kortner, a celebrated Austrian actor and director known for his work in early German cinema, helmed *The Upright Sinner* with a keen eye for comedic timing and social critique.
Who stars in The Upright Sinner?
The film features Max Pallenberg as the lead, alongside Heinz Rühmann, Dolly Haas, Julius Brandt, and Josefine Dora in pivotal roles.
Is The Upright Sinner (1931) worth watching?
As a pre-war German comedy, *The Upright Sinner* offers a witty and fast-paced escape with strong performances and a relatable premise. Its blend of slapstick and satire makes it a charming watch for fans of classic cinema, though its age may limit its appeal to modern audiences.
How long is The Upright Sinner?
The runtime of *The Upright Sinner* is 87 minutes, or approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes.
About The Upright Sinner (1931) — Classic German Comedy with Max Pallenberg
In Fritz Kortner's razor-sharp 1931 comedy *The Upright Sinner*, Max Pallenberg stars as Leopold Pichler, a meticulous and dutiful bank cashier whose life spirals into chaos when a routine errand spirals out of control. Ordered to retrieve a hefty sum from the bank before his boss departs for Vienna, Leopold faces a series of absurd delays that force him into a high-stakes game of catch-up. The film blends biting social satire with slapstick humor, exploring themes of order versus chaos and the fragile nature of trust in a rigidly structured society.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century bureaucracy, *The Upright Sinner* captures the absurdity of red tape with rapid-fire wit and relatable stakes. Dolly Haas and Heinz Rühmann shine in supporting roles, adding layers of charm and comedic timing to a story that balances moral dilemmas with lighthearted fun. A forgotten gem of German pre-war cinema, this short but punchy comedy remains a sharp commentary on human foibles.