lubkoberezowsky

This movie was unique in the fact that it took place in the few months prior to and during the Nazi invasion of WWII. This gave the film a hectic atmosphere, as the French government and those surrounding it are in constant chaos while fleeing the approaching Blitzkrieg. For once we see the great disruption that war causes to millions of innocents, not just the horrors that occur on the front. However I don't agree with he genre characterization that it is a comedy- as it is a very entertaining blend of mystery, double-crossing and drama, as well as a few funny moments. Gerard Depardieu didn't have a overbearing role in the film, but played just one of the many interesting characters that are introduced. I was also surprised by Peter Coyote's French and German language skills - and I think it's worth commenting that an American was included in a French film - and I'm glad to say he held his own. Of course Ms. Adjani and Virginie Ledoyen play excellent roles- there's just something about those French ladies...

I'd have to say that this movie was a keeper. True, Keanu Reeves does play the leading role with an accent akin to a highschool performance, but his script together with Charlize Theron's break-out role more than make up for this. Also, who can forget the great Al Pacino- who plays an even more sinister character than his usual Mob associated roles- Satan himself. His raspy voice and fiery temper fit perfectly with Connie Nielson (Empress from The Gladiator) as the sensual temptress from Hell. The twist at the end was completely unexpected, as the events leading up to it were very plausable and well pulled off. I give it a 7/10 which is choice considering I prefer comedies.