Taking Sides
Where to Watch Taking Sides
Taking Sides is a gripping exploration of morality, art, and politics set against the backdrop of post-World War II Germany. Directed by acclaimed Hungarian filmmaker István Szabó, the movie focuses on the intricate investigation that leads to the prosecution of German composer Wilhelm Furtwängler, who was one of the world-renowned conductors of the time. This film is based on the play of the same name by Ronald Harwood, known for his extraordinary storytelling capabilities.
Taking Sides probes into the delicate and often paradoxical realm of political culpability and artistic integrity in war times by examining the celebrated conductor's choices and compromises during the Third Reich's regime. The plot centers on the unfolding relationship between Furtwängler, played by Stellan Skarsgård, and Major Steve Arnold, played by Harvey Keitel, an American officer tasked with investigating the conductor's alleged collaboration with the Nazis.
As the movie unfolds, the audience is drawn into a thought-provoking narrative that challenges the conventional understanding of right and wrong. The film opens with Furtwängler being hailed as a national hero; however, when the war ends, he becomes a suspect, hounded by Allied forces seeking justice for Nazi atrocities. With Arnold's diligent and aggressive investigation, Furtwängler's actions during the regime become the subject of intense dissection and introspection.
In his role, Skarsgård portrays a man of distinction and nuance, living life in the gray area between collaboration and dissent. On the other hand, Keitel's Major Arnold is a character molded by stark black-and-white notions of right and wrong. The dynamic and intense interactions between these two characters form the essence of the movie, providing a multilayered perspective on the moral conundrums faced by artists in times of conflict.
What makes Taking Sides unique is its unflinching focus on the intense moral debate around Furtwängler's actions, inviting viewers to explore the thin line between survival and complicity. It delves into the question of whether art can be apolitical or if artists, because of their influence, bear an undeniable responsibility to take a stand against oppressive regimes. Critics have praised the movie for its potent dialogue, dramatic performances, and meticulous exploration of this moral quagmire.
Harvey Keitel's portrayal of the uncompromising and relentless major Arnold has been lauded for its intensity and depth. His dogged pursuit of what he perceives to be justice anchors much of the film's tension. In contrast, Stellan Skarsgård steps into the shoes of the Maestro with aplomb, presenting a man plagued by the irreconcilable rift between his love for music and the morally compromising circumstances he found himself in during the Nazi regime.
The movie also features a stellar supporting cast, including Moritz Bleibtreu and Birgit Minichmayr, who add depth and dimension to the narrative. The cinematography by Lajos Koltai captures the bleak post-war atmosphere in Germany, further enhancing the film's overall impact.
Director István Szabó masterfully navigates this tense historical and ethical landscape, ensuring that the movie neither descends into simple condemnation nor absolution of its central character. Instead, Taking Sides centers on stirring the audience's conscience and challenging their own moral compass.
This riveting film isn't merely a tale of historical intrigue but a timeless exploration of how power, politics, and war intersect with and influence art. From the opening scene to the final frame, Taking Sides remains a gripping tale of an ordinary man facing extraordinary circumstances, offering an engrossing cinematic experience that leaves viewers both entertained and enlightened.
Well-researched and finely performed, Taking Sides is a powerful cinematic experience that delves into the convoluted moral choices of individuals during times of war. Its strength resides not just in its stellar performances and engrossing storyline, but also in its fearless exploration of the complex dilemmas faced by artists living under oppressive regimes.
In sum, Taking Sides is a thought-provoking drama that blurs the lines between right and wrong, courage and cowardice, integrity and survival. It compels viewers to question if it's possible to remain untainted while living under an oppressive regime. The ambiguity of its central moral question allows for an engaging debate that extends long after the credits roll, making Taking Sides not just a movie, but a cinematic experience worth contemplating.
Taking Sides is a Drama, Foreign movie released in 2001. Critics and viewers have rated it no reviews, with an IMDb score of undefined..