Happiness Is the Main Thing (1941) in Color — Starring Heinz Rühmann & Hertha Feiler

Happiness Is the Main Thing (1941) — Buy This Classic in Color

Step into the charming world of 1941 German cinema with this delightful comedy, originally titled Hauptsache glücklich! Directed by the multi-talented Theo Lingen, this film stars the beloved Heinz Rühmann alongside Hertha Feiler, Ida Wüst, and Hans Leibelt. The story follows a well-meaning father whose grand plans for his family’s happiness lead to a series of comical misunderstandings and heartwarming moments. It is a feel-good classic that celebrates the simple joys of life. Own this classic movie in color as a DRM-free MP4 digital download for just €15.00.

Plot Summary

The film centers on Peter, a cheerful and somewhat hapless inventor, played with endearing charm by Heinz Rühmann. Peter lives with his wife, Anneliese, and their young son in a modest apartment. Despite his good intentions, Peter’s latest invention, a self-propelled pram, causes chaos in the neighborhood, leading to a series of embarrassing situations. His wife, played by Hertha Feiler, is patient and loving, but she worries about their financial stability as Peter’s schemes rarely seem to pay off.

Determined to provide a better life for his family, Peter decides to enter a lucrative invention contest. The prize money would solve all their problems, allowing them to move to a nicer home and give their son a brighter future. However, his path is fraught with obstacles. A rival inventor, the pompous and scheming Baron von Bock, is also competing and will stop at nothing to win. The Baron, played by Hans Leibelt, uses his wealth and connections to try and sabotage Peter’s chances.

Complicating matters further is Peter’s wealthy and domineering aunt, Aunt Mathilde, portrayed with gusto by Ida Wüst. She disapproves of Peter’s unconventional lifestyle and believes he should settle down with a “proper” job. She threatens to cut off the family’s modest inheritance unless Peter conforms to her expectations. This puts immense pressure on Peter, who must balance his creative ambitions with the need to appease his formidable aunt.

Meanwhile, Peter’s young son, Hansi, becomes an unwitting catalyst for the plot’s twists. He befriends a mysterious man in the park, who turns out to be a famous theater director. This chance meeting opens up a new, unexpected opportunity for Peter. The director, impressed by Peter’s inventive and playful spirit, offers him a job designing stage effects for a grand new production. This seems like the perfect solution, but it also creates a conflict with his rival, the Baron, who is the primary investor in the very same show.

As the opening night of the show approaches, Peter is torn between his invention contest and his new theatrical career. The Baron, seeing a chance to humiliate Peter, sabotages the stage machinery, hoping to cause a disaster that will ruin Peter’s reputation for good. The climax of the film takes place during the chaotic premiere, where everything that can go wrong does go wrong, but in the most delightfully funny way. Will Peter’s quick thinking and good nature save the day, or will the Baron’s scheming finally bring him down?

Cast & Crew

Director: Theo Lingen
Stars: Heinz Rühmann, Hertha Feiler, Ida Wüst, Hans Leibelt, Jane Tilden

Why Buy This Classic in Color?

This colorized version breathes new life into a beloved classic, transforming the viewing experience. The professional colorization reveals the vibrant hues of 1940s Berlin, from the rich fabrics of the characters’ period-accurate costumes to the warm, inviting tones of their modest home. The subtle colouring of the sets and locations adds a layer of depth that was previously hidden in the black-and-white original, making the world of the film feel more tangible and immersive. This restoration highlights the expressive performances of Heinz Rühmann and the rest of the cast, drawing the viewer’s eye to the nuanced emotions playing across their faces. The film has been lovingly colourised to preserve its original charm while offering a fresh perspective for modern audiences. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a piece of cinematic history in a whole new light. Buy your download today for €15.00 and enjoy this heartwarming comedy instantly.

Historical Significance

Happiness Is the Main Thing (1941) stands as a notable example of German entertainment cinema during the early 1940s. Produced during a period of significant political and social upheaval, the film offered audiences a form of escapism, focusing on lighthearted themes of family, ambition, and the pursuit of personal happiness. It represents the “Ufa” style of filmmaking, known for its high production values and star-studded casts, which provided a glamorous counterpoint to the harsh realities of the era. The film’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes and the comedic talents of its lead actor.

Heinz Rühmann was one of the most popular and prolific actors in German cinema, and this film showcases his unique ability to portray the “little man” with both humor and pathos. His performance as the bumbling but well-intentioned inventor is a masterclass in comedic timing. Director Theo Lingen, also a celebrated comedian, demonstrates his skill in crafting a fast-paced, witty narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. The film also benefits from a strong supporting cast, including the formidable Ida Wüst and the elegant Hertha Feiler, who add depth and texture to the story.

Today, the film is appreciated by classic movie enthusiasts for its historical value and its pure entertainment factor. It offers a window into the cinematic tastes and social attitudes of its time. While the world it depicts has long since changed, the film’s core message about the importance of family and finding joy in simple things remains timeless. This colorized edition ensures that a new generation of viewers can discover and appreciate this charming piece of German film history, bringing its warmth and humor to a broader, international audience.

Technical Details

• Format: MP4 / MKV digital download
• Resolution: HD 720p
• Colorized: Professionally colorized from original black and white
• Audio: German original mono
• Runtime: 92 minutes
• DRM-free: Yes — watch on any device
• Instant download: Available immediately after purchase
• Price: €15.00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Movie-Specific Questions

Q: Was Happiness Is the Main Thing originally filmed in color?
A: No, the film was originally shot in black and white in 1941. This page offers a later professional colorized restoration of the film, which has been carefully processed to add realistic colors to the original footage. It is not a studio-produced color version from the time of its release.

Q: Who plays the lead role of the inventor, Peter, in this film?
A: The role of the well-meaning inventor Peter is played by the legendary German actor Heinz Rühmann. He was one of the most beloved and famous comedic actors in German cinema, and his performance here is a prime example of his talent for playing the relatable, everyday man.

Q: Is this a musical or a pure comedy film?
A: Happiness Is the Main Thing is primarily a light-hearted comedy, or “Lustspiel,” a popular genre in German cinema of the era. While it focuses on comedic situations and character interactions, it is not a musical. The humor is derived from the plot’s misunderstandings and the charming performances of its cast.

Digital Download Questions

Q: What format is the download?
A: The film is delivered as MP4 and MKV files that play on virtually any device.
Q: Is there DRM on the file?
A: No. The download is completely DRM-free so you can watch it on any device without restrictions.
Q: How quickly can I watch after purchase?
A: Your download link is available instantly after payment, so you can start watching within minutes.

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