Unknown (2011)

Little bit Memento and a little bit Bourne series.  But not quite as good as either.  The average Joe, me included, figures out whats going on about half way through.  That said, it is worth the watch if for no other reason than to see how nice the new unified Berlin looks.

Liam Neeson is not sure who he is, and neither does Diane Kruger.  But, they put the moves on some of the best in the business and share some interesting chemistry.  I find the roles Neeson has taken since the untimely passing of his wife very interesting.

January Jones is beautiful but unconvincing here.  Perhaps her Mad Men role has spoiled us for much else?  Hope not.


My favorite performances in this story are by Bruno Ganz and Frank Langella.  Though they are on screen for only a short time it is obvious to see how seasoned pros weave their craft compared to some of the younger folks.


Watch this movie with someone who knows that good scientists don't usually make good NASCAR drivers.

Vitus

Watch this movie to see the huge range of Bruno Ganz who played one of the best "Hitlers" in film history. Watch this movie to see Teo Gheorghiu make music. He is actually listed on the soundtrack credits for playing his own piano scenes. Not often can you find a kid who can do both - act like a pro and play like the wunderkind he portrays. Pure magic.

What do you do with a highly gifted child who wants only to be "normal"? There are really only two options - brain damage or acting. Which would you choose for your child?

There is an interesting mix of Swiss German and English in this movie. You never know what to expect from which character. But, use the subtitles just to be safe.

This story is a little bit Big, little bit Trading Places, and a little bit Little Man Tate - among others.

This music is, of course, fantastic. The photography and editing are very good. This is a movie good enough for the whole family.

Watch this one with someone who might be surprised to find a full flight simulator inside an old barn.

Downfall

This movie is not for everyone. It is in German. It has subtitles. It is about Hitler's last few days. It is in black and white. It is based on accounts of those who survived. It is dark and without much humor. If you can get past all those things, it is very, very good.

Bruno Ganz reminds me of a late uncle of mine. The face, the voice, the hair, the way he carries himself brings brings back fond memories of my Uncle Buddy; my father's eldest brother. In this movie however, Bruno Ganz is almost unrecognizable. He plays Adolf so well it is almost disturbing. My uncle was nothing like Hitler despite his 20 plus years in working in California prisons as a welding instructor.

If you are a history buff, and enjoy fresh looks into old stories, this movie is a gem. Bringing to life this often-told story of how Hitler spent his last few hours has as many versions as there are storytellers. I'm no expert, but I have a feeling this one comes closer to reality than anything to date.

My interest in WWII started at a early age when I learned of my fathers involvement in North Africa and Italy. He fibbed about his age to go in the place of his older brother who stayed home to run the family farm. If you have seen the movie Tobruk, you've seen the story of my Dad's unit. That 1967 movie actually got my interest piqued in war movies. The fascination continues today. But, I'm getting off topic a bit.

"Downfall" or "Der Untergang" is a very surgical telling of a very unhappy story. It is instructional though for anyone who has to be a decision-maker. Any manager can learn some lessons here. Some things Hitler did were very smart, and some were very dumb.

Watch this movie with someone who will help you sort out the differences.