An outstanding Film

Rating: 10/10 (6 February 2011)

I don't know why I have never seen this film before. As an actress and writer myself, it is quite an oversight on my part, now rectified. The film offers a complex and thoughtful screenplay by Abby Mann on the subject of moral and social responsibility within Nazi Germany. It is also unveils shockingly how easy it is to lie to oneself and puts into question the necessity of passing judgement if it betters suits the time and circumstances to be lenient. Kramer has drawn from a first rate cast some of the finest screen performances I have ever seen. Montgomery Clift's cameo is mesmerising. As are the performances of Maximilian Schell, Spencer Tracy and Burt Lancaster. Stanley Kramer as director and Ernest Lazlo as superb cinematographer have never been better. It has left me quite shaken. Unforgettable.