Directed by Paul Verhoeven and originally released in 2006, this film is based on a true story regarding the life of Rachel Stein during the latter stages of the German occupation of Holland. Rachel, portrayed brilliantly by Carice van Houten, and her once wealthy Jewish family are nearly all murdered by the Nazis and stripped of their valuables while attempting to escape the country. Rachel survives the slaughter and finds herself caught up in the activities of the Dutch Underground, assumes a new identity and is persuaded to develop an intimate relationship with SS Officer Ludwig Muntze in order to gather information helpful to the Underground. Ludwig, performed by Sebastian Koch, proves to be an exception to the stereotypical Nazi and both Ellis (Rachel's assumed name) and Ludwig unexpectedly fall desperately in love.
Continuing her role as an agent for the Underground, Ellis enters the inner circle of the Gestapo, entertaining them as a singer (which she was in real life) and all the while gathering sensitive information to fulfill her mission. Accordingly, there are intrigue, brutality and betrayal enough to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat and a series of perils-of-Pauline-like episodes involving Ellis that makes one wonder whether she will survive or suffer the fate of her family. Actually, the opening scenes of the film answer that question but take nothing away from the thrilling adventures to come.
Tha photography is excellent and the acting by Carice is believable and excellent. I rate this film at a solid four stars.
Chuck
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