Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: Austria
A Deep Dive into the 1936 Vision of E.W. Emo
Exploring the Romance underpinnings of Wer zuletzt küßt... leads us to the uncompromising vision of E.W. Emo that defines this Romance masterpiece. Melding the raw energy of Austria with a global Romance appeal, it echoes the profound changes occurring in Austria during that era.
In Wer zuletzt küßt..., E.W. Emo pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
While deeply rooted in Austria, Wer zuletzt küßt... has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Romance tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1936 release.
| Cinematography | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of E.W. Emo's style and the core Romance narrative.
Beautiful movie star Edda Vivian has an eccentric idea. She puts one of her kisses up for auction at a charity ball. Among the interested parties is Wiesinger, the owner of a record company, who, without his wife's knowledge, hastens to withdraw a considerable sum from the family safe. As for the philologist Franz, who lives with Wiesinger, he is not at all interested. But mistaken for someone else, he - wins the auction.
Decades after its release, Wer zuletzt küßt... remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying E.W. Emo's status as a master of the craft in Austria and beyond.