Set in the late 1930’s and early 40’s, it’s a story based on actual events inside occupied then Czechoslovakia. The Allies conveniently sat by silently as Hitler took over the country with nary a shot fired. He sent in his most savage psychopath, Reinhard Heydrich to terrify the people and squash any resistance. Heydrich was said to be the architect of the “Final Solution” to the Jewish problem.
Although the film is a bit slow as the Resistance is readying for a major mission, it makes up for it in the last twenty minutes or so which contains some of the most compelling film work I have ever seen.
Jamie Dornan (50 Shades) and Murphy are terrific in their respective roles as Resistance fighters who parachute in for their mission, as are their love interests, Charlotte Le Bon who was wonderful in the amazing “One Hundred Foot Journey” and Czech beauty Anna Geislerova.
Sean Ellis directed this visually beautiful and deeply troubling depiction of some of the darkest moments in human history. The bravery and total commitment of the freedom fighters is thrilling to watch yet emotionally exhausting.
This film has not been marketed effectively but is a must see for those who can handle cruelty at its worst.
I found myself wondering whether we as a nation still have what it takes to defeat evil whenever it surfaces again. These Czechs had what it took and more and it was inspirational to witness it even as captured on film by a talented team.
If “Anthropoid” plays at a theater near you go see it and hold on to your seat!! A remarkable tale of real life heroes.
