The Lives of Others

Just got back from seeing this movie. I have to say, it's one of the best I've seen in years. It just goes to show a thriller can be totally engaging without gratuitous violence, buildings exploding, etc. This is a deeply psychological political story twisting its way through the life of a despicable, yet sympathetic, member of the East German secret police. It's his job to expose those who don't support Socialist ideals, and he chooses to spy on a playwright who seems too honest to be trusted. He becomes much more engaged in the lives of the playwright and his live-in girlfriend than he ever anticipated.

Without spoiling it, I'll say that the film was much more than a portrayal of a world filled with informants spying on their neighbors, which is compellling enough. It explores a journey to self-awareness, and the capacity of one to change.

A very enthusiastic thumbs up!