Customer Reviews

Vienna [VHS]

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4 star:		(1)
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As the preceding review indicates, this video is a cut above the usual travelogue. Covering all of the major sights, it does so utilizing some innovative techniques (e.g., aerial views where appropriate) while providing relevant historical narrative to enhance the viewer's appreciation of this wonderful city. My only disappointment was that all of the filming took place during the summer, since Vienna is also a wonderful city to visit during the winter.

Having last visited Vienna in 1964, when the ravages of the war and the subsequent Soviet occupation were still evident, I was surprised at how much the city has changed, not necessarily for the better. My own images of the city are similar to those of the film "The Third Man." What this video amply demonstrates is that more recent developments, particularly in architecture, have paralleled those in other European cities, robbing Vienna of its uniqueness. Viewers with similar preferences similar to mine may wish to consider visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, which is similar to the old Vienna.

This video is so good that I tried to locate other ones in the Super Cities series (according to the trailer, there are about 20), but with no luck.

Finally, a video that doesn't look like it was filmed with Dad's Super-8! Part of the Super Cities series, this is very professionally produced with excellent sound, music and picture. You see the palaces and monuments (thought they tend to breeze past them) plus alternative recreation - horse racing, flea markets, "hanging out". The great aerial views give a nice perspective of this magnificent but manageable city. The historical background is gossipy and interesting. The focus on this video is more on the Viennese than on tradtional tourist stuff. There are some odd choices (UN kids playing baseball - who cares?) but also some real treats (inside the Hunderwasser Haus). The message here is get to know the city - see the great monuments and buildings but stop and smell the roses. I highly recommend this video! Length: 30 minutes.