If you've got the patience and interest in history - worth a go

I gave this film a chance because I'm a fan of Scott Glen ( http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001277/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 ).

And I'm glad I did.

Glenn tends to "bring it" with solid performances you can count on.

What's not to like? The pacing is often slow. The filming (framing; color; lighting) is un-inspired.

But, what about the script?

Takes place in the early/mid-80s with a backdrop of the Berlin Wall; visited briefly but powerfully - as a woman leaves flowers while Glenn's character looks beyond from a wooden scaffold (subtle but emphatic if you are aware of the significance).

I think this script brings some very interesting components:

- The greed of the press.

- Who was Rudolf Hess? An "enigmatic" figure? Hitler's confidant.

- What was Hess's true mission? Who in Britain might be swayed? changing the course of history.

- Conspiracy within conspiracy (The Russians vs The USA vs the English vs the IRA vs right-wing fanatics vs mercenaries.)

- A divided Berlin

- Did Hess later commit suicide - or was he murdered? by whom?

- What, if any, secrets did he take to the grave?

Thought provoking: You find yourself wondering who you can believe; who you can trust not to stick a knife in your back. Who are the "good guys" and what motivates the bad guys.

I think the complex political intricacies are pretty nicely laid out, especially considering that this movie is generally viewed as a low-mid budget action flick.

And all of this takes place within a real historical backdrop.
If you look for it - you will see many historical markers that draw lines between the film's past and present and even references relevant to our time (such as the scandalous efforts the press will take - just to get a story).

The ending is special - so no I'm not going to spoil it.

Except to say that it is not until the very end that we hear Hess speak. And, in my opinion, his words (spoken with perfection by an incredible actor) are worth the price of admission - if you understand the history behind them.

History is important.
To understand ourselves - we should understand our past.
Understanding the horrific mistakes of the past - gives us at least a chance - not to repeat them.

If you have an inquiring mind - do a little exploring:

- In 2013 Spiegel.de posted an in-depth article in response to news that Hess's top-secret dossier would be auctioned.

- Also, in 2013 you can find articles in Dailymail.co.uk and other on-line publications revisiting the topic.

And if you love conspiracy theories, strap on your tin-foil hat and buckle up for a bumpy ride.

An over-ambitious script shooting for "The Boys from Brazil" (1978) on a budget. But, I like it.

So yes, as an "action flick", this mid-80s movie will see modern non-stop action viewers walking away within 15 minutes.
But, if you have an appetite for something more than "meat and potatoes" - this flick offers textures and flavors that may prove ultimately satisfying.