The new movie starring a stellar cast of Tom Cruise, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, Eddie Izzard, Terence Stamp, Thomas Kretschmann, Tom Wilkinson & the seemingly exact replica of Adolf Hitler by David Bamber. Directed by Bryan Singer. The movie is based on the real World War 2 events of Operation Walküre which was initiated by a group of German conspirators against the madness of Adolf Hitler.
Nurul and I caught Valkyrie last Valentines Day at Eng Wah Suntec City and I have to admit that I really loved the movie. It coud have been better but am still impressed with the action and especially the historical accuracy. Frankly, for a history buff like me, it certainly whet my appetite that led me reading up on it more for the entire night. Fascinating indeed.
Plot
Let me tell you a tiny bit about the movie. Hehe. Don’t worry, I’m not going to spoil too much. Basically, German was in control of nearly the entire of Europe. Adolf Hitler’s maniacal nationalistic oratory skills have impressively led the nation into a superpower that dominated the continent (thanks to their Blitzkrieg attacks adopted from the Mongols) from poverty depression. However, there was German Resistance (men with dignity and conscience) that was certainly against Adolf Hitler’s actions of inhumanity towards people. The movie largely is based on the July 20 Plot of 1944 whereby a failed assasination on Hitler at the Wolf’s Lair led to a coup of Germany code name Operation Valkyrie initiated by Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg (Tom Cruise).
Acting
When i initially heard that Tom Cruise will be Colonel Stauffenberg, I was quite dismayed as I couldn’t believe that he is able to act as a German. Furthermore, he is too big a star that would have certainly outshone the character. But surprisingly, Tom Cruise’s acting was impressive as he really did portray a German soldier fighting for his dear homeland’s soul. Also, it’s astonishing that Tom Cruise profile actually fits with the original Colonel Stauffenberg.
They look pretty similar here
One also have to praise the stellar supporting cast Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, Eddie Izzard, Terence Stamp, Thomas Kretschmann & Tom Wilkinson for producing sensational performances. You feel each frustrations with the indeciveness of General Olbricht (Bill Night), the wisdom and admiration of Major-General Tresckow (Kenneth Branagh), the coward General Fromm (Tom Wilkinson), the brave and yet loyal to the Fuhrer Major Otto Remer (Thomas Kretschmann). Also, an A-class effort to David Bamber for being the exact replica of the despicable Adolf Hitler. Such strength and character was displayed by the few glimpses of Hitler.
Cinematography
Simply stunning visuals and I have to commend the pace of the movie was wonderfully well-timed. The build up is good although I would have loved the movie to be a 3 hour epic instead of the squeezy 2 hours. Scenery and the build up of WW2 Germany is impressive to costumes and designs. No mix-up or poor cuts. A wonderful piece of direction by X-Men’s Bryan Singer.
Overall
The historical accuracy was a clincher for me as we have often seen time and time again Hollywood directors trying to paint their own history. A strong cast with many stellar performances. A little too short for my taste as they could have concentrated more on the emotional and psychological aspect of their situation. Like what led the conspirators to lead such a movement? Any confessions of atrocities? Emotions of Colonel Stuffenberg of leading such a movement. They should also have built up more emotions from his family side and also bring up themes of national conscience. Certainly, the ending could have been more meaningful and dramatic. However, overall, a brilliant film dedicated to teach the less receptive public about this wonderful piece of bravery.
Ratings
Cinematography : 4/5 (Brilliant pace & wonderful camera angles to portray every emotions.)
Acting : 4/5 (Beautiful performances by a strong cast.)
Visual & Sound Effects : 5/5 (Wonderful effects especially the remake of historical sites.)
Plot : 4/5 (Historically Accurate. Painted the true picture of Germany 1940)
Overall : 5/5 (A must see movie. It’s fun to see historical facts being played out on the big screen. Also an enigmatic tribute to the men whom died for fighting what’s Right. An ever lasting tribute for the heroics of Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg.)
Admirable Quotes
Henning von Tresckow: We have to show the world that not all of us are like him. Otherwise, this will always be Hitler’s Germany.
Ludwig Beck: Remember, this is a military operation. Nothing ever goes according to plan.
Erich Fellgiebel: [to Stauffenberg] When the S.S. catch you, they will pull you apart like warm bread.
Col. Claus von Stauffenberg: Only God can judge us now.
Col. Claus von Stauffenberg: You can serve Germany, or the Fuhrer. Not both!
Ludwig Beck: Gentlemen, we can save Europe from total destruction.
Second Lieutenant Hagen: You think it’s a coup?
Major Otto Ernst Remer: Of that I’m certain. I just don’t know which side we’re on.
Adolf Hitler: To understand National Socialism, you must understand Wagner.
Adolf Hitler: Do you recognize my voice?
Major Otto Ernst Remer: Yes, my fuhrer.
Col. Claus von Stauffenberg: Hitler is dead. Operation Valkyrie is in effect.
Fai @ ilovelookinggood
P.S. Do read my other movie review – Bride Wars
About FaiNur
