1938. While the Nazi troops march into Vienna, the lawyer Josef Bartok hastily tries to escape to the USA with his wife but is arrested by the Gestapo. Bartok remains steadfast and refuses to cooperate with the Gestapo that requires confidential information from him. Thrown into solitary confinement, Bartok is psychologically tormented for months and begins to weaken. However, when he steals an old book about chess it sets him on course to overcome the mental suffering inflicted upon him, until it becomes a dangerous obsession.
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The film doesn't rush. It trusts the viewer — gives time to inhabit the characters, understand what's really happening. Direction here serves the actors rather than overwhelming them.
This film doesn't entertain — it speaks. If you're ready for that, it'll leave a mark. If not — it'll seem slow.
A good choice for those who value subtle direction and honest performance.
Director: Philipp Stölzl
— MovieFinder Editorial
Best Watched
Viewing atmosphere: Unhurried, on a weekday evening. Put down the phone, let the film work.
Oliver Masucci
Dr. Josef Bartok
Albrecht Schuch
Franz-Josef Böhm
Birgit Minichmayr
Anna Bartok
Rolf Lassgård
Owen McConnor
Andreas Lust
Johann Prantl
Samuel Finzi
Alfred Koller
Lukas Miko
Gustav Sailer
Joel Basman
Barkeeper Willem
Clemens Berndorff
Dr. Swoboda
Johannes Zeiler
Dr. Fink
Audience Score
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