One of the most powerful war films of the decade

Rating: 8/10 (9 November 2008)

Despite the context of the politics (of which I mean; they were Nazis), set amongst the bleak contrasts of the intentions it remains so emotionally draining I was on the edge of tears. It's so haunting yet never feels manipulative. Bruno Ganz is a brute force not to be reckoned with, and I hate not giving him the win but Giamatti is most triumphant. Somehow he managed to add a grand depth to Hitler, especially in his passive moments of deep thought - completely humanizing his 'character'. Entwined with the scenes of Hitler are war scenes, yet unglorified sections of one nearby area being attacked. So gritty yet stark makes for exhilarating viewing; outstanding cinematography and sound. It had perfect pacing, matching the subtext of events to make it more affecting, which was extremely effective despite not always being so subtle. I thought it was a wise choice to not make Hitler's suicide anything special over the other suicides, which were often more shocking. Watching the men re-evaluate their last thoughts was tremendous. The last image was beautiful, if contrived; showing us a last glimpse of hope for the truly innocent.
8/10