Taking Sides

Watch Taking Sides

  • 2001

Taking Sides is a historical drama film directed by István Szabó and released in 2001. The film is based on a play by Ronald Harwood and is set in post-World War II Germany in 1946. Some of the key settings for the movie are the American Zone of Occupation and the ruins of Berlin. The movie starts off with Wilhelm Furtwängler (played by Stellan Skarsgård), a world-renowned conductor, returning to Berlin after the war. He is confronted by Major Steve Arnold (played by Harvey Keitel), who is tasked with investigating Furtwängler's association with the Nazi party during the war. Arnold is convinced that Furtwängler's talent was exploited by the Nazis and that he must have been aware of the atrocities they committed.

The movie then follows the proceedings of the investigation, with Furtwängler's fate hanging in the balance. It turns out that the case is not open and shut, as both sides argue their points convincingly. Furtwängler's supporters insist that he was apolitical and only concerned with music, while his detractors argue that his talent gave him immense power and that he should have done more to resist the Nazis.

The investigation also takes us through some of the horrific events of the war, including the Holocaust and the persecution of Jews. The film has some powerful scenes that show the aftermath of these events, including the ruins of Berlin and the bitter resentment felt by many Germans at the time.

Throughout the movie, there is a tension between Arnold and Furtwängler, with both men being stubborn and determined to prove their points. Arnold, in particular, is portrayed as a man with a mission, unwilling to back down or compromise. This leads to several confrontations, including one where Arnold asks Furtwängler to play a Chopin étude to prove that he is still a great musician. The scene is well-acted and intense, highlighting the conflict between the two men.

The movie also has a subplot involving Furtwängler's wife, who is sympathetic to the Nazis and is portrayed as an unrepentant supporter of Hitler. Her presence adds another layer of complexity to Furtwängler's character, as he is shown to be a man torn between his love of music and his moral obligations.

Overall, Taking Sides is a well-made historical drama that explores important themes and raises difficult questions about the role of artists during times of war and political turmoil. The acting is superb, with Skarsgård and Keitel delivering strong performances that capture the intensity and complexity of their characters. The film also has a haunting musical score that adds to the overall atmosphere. However, some viewers may find the movie slow-paced and overly talky, as much of the action takes place in the investigation room. Nonetheless, Taking Sides is a thought-provoking film that is well worth watching for those interested in post-war history and the arts.

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Description
  • Release Date
    2001
  • Language
    English
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