For the many unsung heroes who resisted the Communist regime,

Rating: 10/10 (29 February 2008)

An absolutely brilliant film by writer/director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck. His first feature film was more than deserving of the awards it receives, especially last year's Oscar.
Ulrich Mühe totally captivated me by his performance as the Stassi agent trying to please his boss, who was trying to get a promotion by helping a Minister get a lover, the incredibly beautiful and talented Martina Gedeck (The Good Shepard). The fact that government officials would use their office for carnal purposes would not surprise anyone but the most naive, but the pervasiveness of the State into the lives of the East Germans was something that was incredible to believe.
The fact that good people are forced into doing something that is opposed to their nature by constant forces was a major theme, but the most important thing shown by Captain Wiesler(Mühe) was that even the most evil can find some good in them and sacrifice themselves for others. It was inspiring and captivating to watch.