Review of The Lives of Others (2006) by Paul N — 07 Feb 2011

This is a slow but fantastic political suspense movie. While I find the baseline premise a tad difficult to swallow (hardened Stasi agent experiences an emotional awakening), once you willingly suspend disbelief on that level, the movie is powerful and gripping.

Character development - particularly Ulrich Muhe's character - is convincing. The pervasive elements of fear and distrust drown the landscapes as well as the Stasi characters. The artistic freedom and passion of Dreyman and Sieland stand in stark contrast to the button-down self control of Wiesler. This film does a magnificent job of demonstrating the frailty of being human while at the same time honoring the powerful emotions that can alter the course of history on both an individual and national level.

Definitely worth the watch!