[1] It offers a satirical portrayal of life in Berlin in the aftermath of World War II.

[2] After many travails, struggling to find food, shelter, and work, he eventually falls in love and ends up happily with his dream woman.

The Darmstädter Echo praised it for its lack of spite and viciousness and its humor and humanity.

[4] Angelica Fenner compares the film to Bertolt Brecht with devices such as the omniscient narrator, prototypical characters, and satirical tone.

[6] It was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Film from any Source in the 1950 ceremony, when it was beaten by Bicycle Thieves.