"The first operetta written directly for the screen, Viennese Nights is an exquisite example of why the genre was so popular. It was written and composed by two of the greatest names in the field, Oscar Hammerstein II and Sigmund Romberg...In the leading role of Elsa is Vivienne Segal, whose career in operetta dated back to the teens, and who was to enjoy later, well-deserved success on Broadway...Supporting (her) are Walter Pidgeon, reminding us that he was once known for his singing voice; the always reliable Alexander Gray; and, in a small part as the Austrian ambassador, Bela Lugosi...Modern audiences may find the plot sentimentally obvious...However, there can be little argument that the songs...have lost none of their potency. And who can fail to be moved by Viennese Nights' tragic Act One finale or its heart-rending conclusion?" -- Anthony Slide, UCLA Film and Television Archive 2nd Annual Festival of Preservation