About Emil and the Detectives

"Emil and the Detectives" is a 1964 film adaptation of a popular children's book by Erich Kästner. Directed by Peter Tewksbury, the film takes place in Berlin, where young Emil Tischbein travels alone to visit his grandmother. During his journey, Emil falls asleep and wakes up to find his money stolen by a suspicious man. He decides to follow this man, becoming embroiled in an intriguing detective story brimming with adventure and intrigue. Emil enlists the help of local kids, who form a unique detective squad to help him bring the perpetrator to justice.

Making / Production

The production of Emil and the Detectives was undertaken by the Walt Disney Productions. The film was shot entirely on location in Berlin, Germany, providing an authentic backdrop to the story. The director, Peter Tewksbury, worked hard to maintain the spirit and essence of the original book while catering to a different medium of storytelling.

Actors

• Bryan Russell as Emil Tischbein: Bryan Russell perfectly embodied the young, adventurous Emil with his charismatic and convincing portrayal.
• Walter Slezak as Grundeis: Walter Slezak gave a chilling performance as the thief, lending an air of menace and fear to the film.
• Heinz Schubert as The Baron: Heinz Schubert beautifully captured the sly, sneaky persona of The Baron.
• Peter Ehrlich as Gustav: Peter Ehrlich played Gustav, a supporting character who provides comic relief in this thrilling adventure.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is Walt Disney's first film entirely shot on location in Germany.
• The movie is a remake of the German film of the same name from 1931.
• Author Erich Kästner makes a cameo appearance in the film as an extra.

Quotes

• "I'll swear he took the money. I'll swear on a stack of bibles."
• "No boy is bad if he dares to be."
• "How can they ever call us children, we're more like little adults."

Music, Soundtrack

• The memorable theme song "Emil and his Detectives" was composed by Heinz Funk.
• The soundtrack comprised instrumental pieces mostly blending into the background, highlighting the suspense and mystery of the story.