Rating: 15
Main Actor: Ulrich Mühe; Sebastian Koch
Main Actress: Martina Gedeck
YouTube: Film Trailer
This is a powerful political thriller that retains a strong grasp on human relationships, loyalty and the line between right and wrong. Mühe plays Wiesler, a secret police agent who is charged with the job of monitoring the artistic couple Sieland (Gedeck) and Dreyman (Koch). He sits by his equipment like a fly on the wall, noting even their most intimate of movements - monitoring their life whilst his own appears forgotten.
The movie plays great tricks on the audience - who should they support? Who is in the wrong? This is constantly changing - as you learn more about Sieland and Dreyman, you also gain glimpses into Wiesler's nature through his response to their actions. Amidst the Soviet blocks of flats a story of trust, honesty and desire unfolds taking unexpected turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.
The subtle use of music enhances the film without falling into the trap of attempting to over-intensify the mood. Rather, the entire thriller has a subtle air to it - whilst keeping you entirely gripped, the softer sides of human nature are allowed to shine through. The film provides as interesting glimpse on a world that seems so distant yet is actually a living memory, where fear underpinned the actions of everyone and no one was safe from potential persecution. Skilfully done and utterly compelling, this is a film not to be missed.
The movie plays great tricks on the audience - who should they support? Who is in the wrong? This is constantly changing - as you learn more about Sieland and Dreyman, you also gain glimpses into Wiesler's nature through his response to their actions. Amidst the Soviet blocks of flats a story of trust, honesty and desire unfolds taking unexpected turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.
The subtle use of music enhances the film without falling into the trap of attempting to over-intensify the mood. Rather, the entire thriller has a subtle air to it - whilst keeping you entirely gripped, the softer sides of human nature are allowed to shine through. The film provides as interesting glimpse on a world that seems so distant yet is actually a living memory, where fear underpinned the actions of everyone and no one was safe from potential persecution. Skilfully done and utterly compelling, this is a film not to be missed.
Rating: 8.5/10
