Surveillance is a common theme in today’s headlines, but what might it be like to live in an acknowledged security state? East Germany’s Stasi had an extensive network of both official and unofficial informants—estimates range from 500,000 to 2 million, depending on whether one-time informants are counted, in a country of just over 16 million. Although this film is a drama, not a documentary, I think it accurately conveys the suspicion, bitterness, and heart-break that come from not knowing who to trust.
Ulrich Mühe’s performance as the Stasi officer leading the team monitoring a playwright (Sebastian Koch) is very subtle, as well as moving and creepy. Koch and Martina Gedek (the playwright’s girlfriend) also give excellent performances, portraying complicated emotional states. The color palate for the film is very muted, which effectively highlights the muted lives lead by many of the characters. Streams of light within otherwise darkened spaces are also used stunningly. I highly recommend this Oscar-winning film