Valkyrie (2008)
Disillusioned Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg joins a conspiracy of German officers planning to overthrow the Nazi regime. Stauffenberg spearheads the audacious 20 July plot in 1944 to assassinate Adolf Hitler at his Wolf’s Lair headquarters. The conspirators attempt to use the military’s own contingency plan, Operation Valkyrie, to stage a coup and seize control of Berlin.
Length: 2h1m
Genre: Historical Thriller, Drama
This Title is: Political Suspense, Historical War Drama
Cast
Tom Cruise, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, Tom Wilkinson, Terence Stamp
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: PG-13 – Violence and brief strong language
FAQ
- Is Valkyrie (2008) Based on a True Story?: Yes, it is based on the true events of the 20 July 1944 plot against Hitler.
- Where was Valkyrie (2008) filmed?: Primarily filmed in Berlin, Germany, including the historical Bendlerblock memorial site.
- Who Wrote the Soundtrack?: John Ottman
Filmmaker Profile
Director Bryan Singer, celebrated for orchestrating complex suspense in projects like The Usual Suspects, brought a meticulous focus to this production. He emphasized realism, historical accuracy, and creating palpable tension around the high-stakes political maneuvers.
Why It’s Worth Watching
The movie is a masterful exercise in tension, even though the historical outcome is known. Its appeal lies in the meticulous reconstruction of the coup attempt, aided by stunning visual accuracy in costumes and sets. Strong acting and tight pacing elevate the true account of courage and moral conviction into a high-stakes, political action picture.
Main Character Deep Dive
Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg’s journey charts a profound moral reckoning. After being gravely wounded, the decorated officer channels his disillusionment into a revolutionary act. Tom Cruise gives a focused performance, embodying Stauffenberg’s steely determination and aristocratic bearing while conveying the immense pressure of orchestrating a regime change. His commitment to saving human lives makes the performance exceptional.
Unforgettable Quote
“This is a military operation. Nothing ever goes according to plan.”
Trivia
- The execution scene was filmed at the exact spot where the historical event happened at the Bendlerblock in Berlin.
- Tom Cruise’s casting caused controversy in Germany due to his connection to Scientology.
- German actors were used, but the movie was filmed in English to appeal to a wider audience.
Trailer
Stream Valkyrie (2008) on:
Our Review
- Quality:
- Acting:
- Storyline:
- Visuals:
- Entertainment:
I found this historical account to be an utterly electrifying watch. From the opening sequence in North Africa to the heart-pounding events at the Wolf’s Lair, the pacing is masterful, keeping me entirely engaged despite knowing the outcome. What truly impressed me was the meticulous attention to detail in the set design and period costumes, transporting me directly into the paranoia and high tension of 1944 Nazi Germany. The production achieves an incredible sense of realism. The strength of the movie rests firmly on the shoulders of the extraordinary cast. Tom Cruise delivers one of his most measured and focused performances, portraying the courage and conviction of Colonel von Stauffenberg with dignity. The surrounding supporting actors, including Kenneth Branagh and Bill Nighy, are equally superb, lending gravity to the weighty political drama. This movie stands as a testament to moral clarity and sacrifice, demonstrating the profound risks taken by officers seeking to save their country from totalitarianism. I was captivated by the sheer bravery on display. It is a powerful, exceptionally well-made piece of cinema that commands attention and leaves a lasting impact.
Who Should Watch This?
Stream it if you appreciate taut historical dramas based on real-life heroism, featuring high-stakes political maneuvers and exceptional craftsmanship.
