Fokus, Films from Germany
Fokus, Films from Germany, curated by Camilla Baier, presents Ernst Lubitsch’s "Kohlhiesel’s Daughters", a Bavarian twist on "The Taming of the Shrew", is a delightful silent comedy about an innkeeper’s scheme to marry off his fiery elder daughter before her sweet-natured younger sister can tie the knot.
1920 | Director: Ernst Lubitsch | Germany | 65 min | Silent film.
Ernst Lubitsch’s Kohlhiesels Töchter is a spirited silent comedy that combines wit, charm, and farcical romance. Set in a picturesque Bavarian village, the story follows innkeeper Mathias Kohlhiesel and his mission to marry off his two daughters: the fiery and unruly Liesl and the gentle, refined Gretl. The plot thickens when two suitors, the daring Xaver and the timid Seppl, vie for Gretl’s hand, only to face Kohlhiesel’s stern condition: Liesl must wed first. What ensues is a delightful battle of wills, misunderstandings, and surprising transformations, as Xaver’s unconventional methods to “reform” Liesl lead to unexpected results. Lubitsch’s direction showcases his budding mastery of satire and character-driven storytelling, laying the groundwork for his later international acclaim.
Adapted from Hanns Kräly’s farce and inspired by Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, the film stars Henny Porten in a captivating dual role as both sisters. With its humour, emotional depth, and keen observations on gender dynamics, Kohlhiesels Töchter became one of the most popular films of the Weimar Republic, cementing Lubitsch’s reputation as a cinematic innovator.
This 2023 digital restoration by the Friedrich-Wilhelm-Murnau-Stiftung revives the film’s visual splendour and its amber-toned charm, ensuring its legacy endures for new audiences.
A film from the collection of the
Friedrich-Wilhelm-Murnau-Stiftung in Wiesbaden.
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