Surely an Oscar for Germany for this somber "feel-good"story

Rating: 10/10 (23 November 2006)

Germany has during the last few years produced a number of very worthwhile films that take stock of their somewhat chequered past. The incredible "Untergang" and the very funny "Good Bye Lenin" have to be the two most prominent ones. They have now been joined by the very classy "Das Leben der Anderen" (The Lives of Others). It is a must see film for everyone, and especially those with an interest in our near history. It is this incredible to think that less than 20 years ago such totalitarian regimes existed all over Europe. It is even more disturbing to realise that they still exist in places today.
Based around one surveillance case that offers many different takes on the same story "Das Leben der Anderen" brings home the totalitarian regime that was East Germany. It offers a great historical perspective while making you feel hope and joy. The acting is extremely good, it feels just as downplayed as I imagine life in the old DDR was. I don't imagine it will propel any of the actors to Hollowood greatness (many are already German acting veterans) but I really hope writer/director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck who also co-produced the film get his due credit.
It would be liberating (pardon the pun) to see this film claim top hon ours for best international film instead of the usual line up of Almodovar or Kaurismäki. Even if it doesn't, go see it.