1. April 2000

This film with such a strange title is a German language comedy and satire of sorts about occupied Austria after World War II. It was made in 1952 - nearly seven years after the end of the war, with an end to the occupation by the four powers yet nowhere in sight. That would happen in 1955. But, in the meantime, the makers of "1. April 2000" decided to satirize Austria's poor post-war plight, and the movie projects the occupation going on until 2000.

The film is so-so, but not a particularly funny comedy. What's most amusing is the mode of travel by the air transport vehicles that look more like bloated capsules than anything real that might fly. Indeed, at first sight they give the impression that this might be a sci-fi film. And, while this film has a world court and world leader, it's not too far off what has been taking shape with the UN and the European Union - as those higher authorities over time, began to assume and claim more and more authority in world matters.

Those who understand German may appreciate this film more than others, but the humor doesn't ever rise above the level of a few chuckles. The subject is obviously dated, and only those with knowledge of history and WW II and post-war film buffs are likely to catch on or be able to understand what it's about - when seeing it in 2000 and beyond.