Every time there is a new film themed around some odd story from the Second World War, one can't help but wonder how many tales can there really be about the event.
If you had imagined Valkyrie to be a regular Hollywood war film thanks to the larger than life presence of Tom Cruise then you are in for a surprise. Based on the true story of a group of dedicated soldiers, businessmen and politicians who realise that Hitler is doing more harm than good to their motherland, Valkyrie is a well-crafted and superbly executed film.
Valkyrie Plot
Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg is convinced that rather than fighting the Allies in Africa, German troops should return to protect Berlin from the imminent assault by the Allied Forces but the top brass has other ideas. Losing his hand and eye in an air attack, Stauffenberg is reassigned to the Head Quarters in Berlin where he comes in contact with a group of people who are dedicated in getting rid of Hitler by any means necessary.
Staufeenberg argues that killing Hitler isn't the logical way out of the mess that Germany would find itself post the leader's death. Rather he believes in using Operation Valkyrie to their advantage, which would enable Reserve Army to keep order in case something happens to Hitler.
Stauffenberg tinkers the draft around to excuse Hitler's SS from taking control and giving General Fromm, the Head of the Reserve Army, full control. The General decides to fence sit and observe before deciding. Stauffenberg and his aides forge ahead and attempt to assassinate Hitler but things don't go exactly as planned.
Good Points in Valkyrie
Tom Cruise is more than merely convincing as the 40's something Stauffenberg. The viewer is in for a rare treat where a star uses his muscle power to galvanise a project but not really take over everything.
Cruise allows the supporting cast their space and tries to match-up to their prowess rather than aimlessly wander like a super star that he is. Blessed with a script based on a true event, Valkyrie's strength lies in the fact that it doesn't resort to the usual gimmickry by means of weird camera angles or going overboard with the background score.
Rather the film works itself out beautifully by pacing the narrative very tautly and manages its cast very well.
Director Bryan Singer and writer Christopher McQuarrie come together after The Usual Suspects to weave an intricate drama of high human drama that never becomes too theatrical.
Final Words about Valkyrie
Singer's stint at helming films like the X-Men series have given him excellent understanding of utilising a collection of actors. Tom Wilkinson shines as General Fromm, the head of the Reserve Army.
Even if you aren't the one for war film or tales from the Great War, Valkyrie is a must watch for the simple reason that it's an engaging tale.
Valkyrie Rating: 4/5
Valkyrie Cast: Kenneth Branagh, Tom Cruise, Bill Nighy, Carice van Houten, Christian Berkel, Eddie Izzard, Terence Stamp, Thomas Kretschmann, Tom Wilkinson
Valkyrie Genre: Drama
Valkyrie Director: Bryan Singer
Valkyrie Certification: U/A
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