A night of glitz and glamour at Vienna Filmball 2013
Glamour and glitz were out in force at the weekend as stars from Austria and further afield flocked over the red carpet into the Vienna City Hall for a night of awards, dance and partying!
The fourth annual Vienna Film Ball 2013 attracted stars such as the legendary Egyptian actor Omar Sharif – who starred Hollywood films such as Doctor Zhivago and Lawrence of Arabia as well as American actress-cum-model Kristanna Loken – who has starred in Terminator 3 and Painkiller Jane amongst other films.
Sharif who was awarded a ‘Lifetime achievement Award’ at the event told a delighted audience: “I have filmed all over the world and once in Austria. In Austria I played Crown Prince Rudolph. I immediately fell in love with this country and the people. I love all people here!”
Although he did admit to not knowing anything about the Austrian film scene: “I know nothing about it,” he said openly.
When asked about Austrian Oscar winner Christoph Waltz, he wondered: “Who, who, Christoph who? I am 81-years-old and live in Paris. I don’t hear much of what goes on in the world!”
Closer to home – Austria’s legendary actor Karl Merkatz – made famous in the series ‘Ein echter Wiener geht nicht unter’ where he played the famous character ‘Mundl’ also attended and was given an award for his career.
The Austrian who was given the prize by German actress Sunnyi Melles said: “It is an honour to be given the prize by yourself; I am very touched, as I have regarded you as one of the best actresses for such a long time. Maybe I will one day fulfil my dream of filming together with you!”
French (–Russian) actor Gerard Depardieu was a no-show as was New Yorker Christian Slater – but that didn’t dampen the evening’s spirits.
After a Moët & Chandon champagne reception, the 700 guests were treated to an extravagant dinner before the dance floor was opened and the party began.
Until the early hours of the morning guests enjoyed a traditional Viennese ballroom, a cigar and cocktail lounge, live-music, a traditional Viennese Heuriger wine bar and a casino courtesy of Casino Austria.
Christian Slater has promised to make it to Vienna next year – after having to cancel on this year due to promotion commitments in the USA.
The glamorous ball has attracted many Hollywood stars and film legends since 2010.
Last year’s biggest stars were Hollywood actresses Ornella Muti and Rose McGowan.
Sir Christopher Lee’s appearance was a particular highlight of the ball in 2011. Film legends from Austria, the United Kingdom, Germany and France have attended the ball over the course of the last four years and the event has firmly established itself in the Vienna society scene