The Lives of Others (2006)
The Lives of Others (2006) 8/10
–> Winner, 2007 Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film (Germany)
–> 2006 European Film Awards: Best Picture, Best Script, Best Actor
–> Independant Spirit Awards: Best Foreign Film
–>2006 German Film Awards: 7 Wins, including Best Direction and Best Film
The Lives of Others is one of those slow, arthouse movie that moves at a deliberate, languid pace. But behind the quiet pace lies a powerful and gripping tale of dissent and how the state works to stifle it. It is a tale of the faceless, unnamed people whom the state employs to listen in on its people. Part thriller, Part political statement, The Lives of Others hearkens back to a not so distant past when the state loomed supreme over all affairs of people’s lives.
Ulrich Mühe puts in a fascinating and nuanced performance, and his slow transformation is what makes for an absorbing experience. A brilliant reflection of the state’s pervasive reach, The Lives of Others is a thriller that does not need action and explosions to excite.
“Wiesler’s journey toward self-awareness is fascinating, inspiring, even empowering. It’s one of the great moviegoing experiences of the year.”- LA Daily News
“A potent narrative about the transformative effect of involvement in other people’s stories, “Lives” turns its own story into a python-tight embrace of nuanced tension and emotional connection. It convincingly demonstrates that when done right, moral and political quandaries can be the most intensely dramatic dilemmas of all.”- LA Times
