User reviews

Do not be misled by the first episode, to think that this is the average war-time drama. This mini-series starts with the big conflict between nazi Germany and the world. Narrows down to the conflict between the Germans and the Russians in Eastern Germany, and then lets you realize that the conflict this movie (series) actually depicts is the conflicts in the head of a young German soldier. This is about friendship, about trust, and perhaps most of all about the forbidden, and totally impossible love between soul mates who meet against all odds.

All the acting, from all actors, are totally believable. This is one of the most beautiful, touching, and thought-provoking mini-series I have ever seen. Kudos to Jannis Niewöhner, Malgorzata Mikolajczak and Sebastian Urzendowsky. I have never seen them before, but they are incredible.

This is partially a story about the meaninglessness of war, and partially a story about star-crossed lovers, but the main theme recurring through both deals with the protagonist's inner conflicts as he winds up changing allegiances multiple times throughout, sometimes through choice, sometimes necessity.

Now, it really requires a lot of suspension of disbelief in the beginning of the story to buy that a German soldier and a woman in the resistance would be able to both sneak off from their duties and none of their fellow soldiers on either side noticing, but if you can look past this, this is a well-produced and well acted drama that manages well to depict the cruelty of war and tough choices without feeling gratuitous or cliched, though the ending is rather ambiguous and will leave you thinking.

War films and series often go along with simple solutions and plots and most notably, they keep repeating same stories.

Some might say, that two episodes were too few for dealing the story and some things should have had more space. It is partly true, but it is also interesting to see something, where not everything is made finished for the viewer. Situations in real life aren't so why make it like that always in movies? Haven't read the book, but I would guess that the plot in series follows it well.

On the one hand part of the plot was nonsense, a Polish partisan falling in love with a young soldier fighting for the Nazis. On the other hand, very real situations were portrayed such as sabotage, moral dilemmas, the sheer horror of what men become during a protracted campaign. And, as well, the realisation that what replaced the Nazis was as bad in its own right.

Money was spent on this production. There must have been hundreds of extras and the locations, including the train wreck, must have cost a pretty penny as must the uniforms have done.

There were some loose ends - the sister, for example. However, when I thought about it, there must have been millions in Walter's position after the war with such unresolved issues.

I watched the four episodes within a day and could have done with more. The equivocal ending was just perfect though.

The Turncoat (name in English) is war film based on the novel by German author Siegfried Lenz. This isn't typical representative of this genre. The story contains different elements especially about German history maybe more than warfare itself. Additionally relations between different people are important part of the film. I could almost say warfare hasn't the biggest role.

German soldier Walter Proska is in a small military unit on the eastern front in WW2. There is with him some German soldiers, their brutal Officer and many Polish partisans against them. Proska has doubts about rationality of war when German army and political system is losing the war. At the same time he falls in love with Polish partisan Wanda. Later phases of the war like being in the Red Army and as official in the East Germany zone bring him different problematic situations. Finally he must choose between eastern and western zone. Additionally Walter hasn't found Wanda who has lost during war. The end of the story is worth watching. I have seen some better films but this is better than average war films. 8/10

This story is sad and very good! I recommend people to see this one.

"Der Überläufer", a World War II drama that transcends the conventional war-time narrative, explores the complexities of human emotions amidst a tumultuous backdrop. The film's technical and cinematographic elements contribute to an immersive experience, although it is not without its flaws.

The acting prowess of the entire cast, including standout performances by Jannis Niewöhner, Malgorzata Mikolajczak, and Sebastian Urzendowsky, elevates the narrative. Their portrayal of characters embroiled in the conflicts of war and love is both believable and compelling. The film's emotional depth is a testament to the actors' dedication to their roles.

Despite a somewhat blocky start, where certain plot points may require suspension of disbelief, the narrative finds its stride, delving into the protagonist's inner struggles and ever-changing allegiances. The director skillfully navigates the intricacies of depicting the cruelty of war and the tough choices that arise, avoiding gratuitous or clichéd moments. The ambiguous ending adds an extra layer of contemplation, leaving viewers with lingering thoughts.

While some may find fault in the plot's fantasy elements and the portrayal of a Polish partisan falling in love with a German soldier, the film succeeds in portraying real-life situations of sabotage, moral dilemmas, and the aftermath of war. The production's attention to detail, evident in the extensive use of extras and meticulously crafted locations, contributes to the overall authenticity.

Despite a few loose ends and a protagonist whose inner conflict could be more effectively conveyed, "The Turncoat" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition during wartime. The film's ability to prompt reflection on the meaninglessness of war and the enduring impact on individuals makes it a worthwhile watch, even for those with mixed feelings about certain plot elements.

In conclusion, "Der Überläufer" rises above the standard war film fare, emphasizing the human experience over the geopolitical backdrop. The film's strong performances, evocative storytelling, and attention to detail make it a commendable addition to the genre, despite some narrative missteps.

A very good movie. Makes me think. Raises questions that are important at all times, especially now when people, nations and countries are divided: by apartments, houses, countries, continents. This division and emphasis on individual, personal development of a person to the detriment of social, community development and general ignorance of people lead to wars. In wars, the winners are the arms dealers, those who took over the planet with our own consent. All other losers. It's time for people to understand that we are all part of a single organism called humanity and we have nothing to divide. On the contrary, it is necessary to unite and live as a whole. This is an inevitable future and those who do not accept it are doomed to extinction.

And I can't say anything bad about the bias. In my opinion, everything is shown as it was in reality. At least one of the many faces is shown.

I love movies set in WW2 but this was really incredibly bad. The main actor has the charisma of a potato bag, and he doesn't get across the difficult inner conflict and emotions of the situation at all. And the love story! God. Never have I seen a less believable love story in all my life. Though the female lead is still the only character with a bit of interest, all the others are flat and cartoonish. Not to be recommended unless you just want to spend a few hours in early 20st century Europe, cause the costumes and sets are nice to look at nonetheless.

This film is not following the book, it's story and feelings. Read the novel instead. Frippe

Who cares what it's about it's just depressing and sad. I love world war II dramas but they have to have some energy and this is just about how much war sucks and I already knew that.