Magnificent performance by Ulrich Mühe!

Rating: 10/10 (28 April 2009)

All cinematographic ensemble involved in creating "Das Leben der Anderen" proved to be magnificent. Nonetheless, I would like to focus on Ulrich Mühe, who,in my opinion, has done a marvellous, heartbreaking job playing Stasi captain Gerd Wiesler who is fanatically obsessed with interrogation, surveillance and etc. in the beginning of the movie. However, in the course of it, somewhat awkward, dramatically lonesome and laconic officer with inexplicable penchant for revealing dissidents had metamorphosed into a truly sympathetic person. Perhaps, he was sympathetic all the time in his own intrinsic, implicit way? Perhaps, he is simply looking for the right opportunity to grasp and help someone really deserving help? Perhaps, his acquaintance with Bertolt Brecht or "sonate vom gutten menschen" assisted in awakening momentary lapse of sympathy his inner tender-hearted microcosm? My dear reader, you yourself had better answer these questions after spending one hundred thirty seven unforgettable minutes watching this movie. Respectfully yours,