Suave, highly polished, and intensely charismatic, Walbrook made a bold departure from ten generations of family tradition in the circus world to carve out his own legacy on the Austrian and German stage. It was during the early 1920s that Walbrook first stepped into German cinema, gradually building momentum until he emerged as a prominent star by the 1930s—initially known under the name Adolf Wohlbruck. In those early days, Walbrook exuded a vibrant energy and boyish charm, quite different from the refined, mature persona he would later master so effortlessly.
Throughout this period, Walbrook brought his distinctive flair to a number of memorable films, standing out especially in the delightfully clever gender-bending romantic comedy Viktor und Viktoria (1933), also known internationally as Victor and Victoria. This particular role not only showcased Walbrook’s versatility but also laid the creative foundation for Blake Edwards’ later adaptation, Victor/Victoria. His growing reputation didn’t go unnoticed, and soon enough, Hollywood came calling.
By 1937, Walbrook had made his way across the Atlantic to appear in Michael Strogoff, released in English as The Soldier and the Lady. In this production, he reprised the lead role he had already portrayed in earlier French and German versions, further proving his international appeal. With each performance, Walbrook continued to solidify his status—not just as a talented actor, but as a magnetic screen presence whose influence would endure well beyond his era.
When it comes to Anton Walbrook’s most acclaimed performance, many critics and fans alike point to Viktor and Viktoria (1933) as the standout in his career. This early film not only showcased Anton Walbrook’s remarkable talent but also became his highest rated movie, earning praise for its wit, charm, and innovative storytelling. On the other end of the spectrum, Saint Joan (1957) is often regarded as one of the weaker entries in his filmography—despite the strength of the source material, it received mixed reviews and ultimately stands as Anton Walbrook’s lowest rated film. Throughout his career, Anton Walbrook demonstrated incredible range, but these two titles represent the peaks and valleys of his cinematic journey. Whether you’re exploring classic cinema or tracing Anton Walbrook’s legacy, these films offer valuable insight into his artistic evolution.