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Watch on the Rhine

1943 Drama, Thriller · 1h 54m
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On the eve of World War II, the German Kurt Müller, his American-born wife Sara, and their three children, having lived in Europe for years, visit Sara's wealthy mother near Washington, DC. Kurt secretly works for the anti-Nazi resistance. A visiting Romanian count, becoming aware of this, seeks to blackmail him.

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About Watch on the Rhine

Set on the precipice of World War II, the German anti-Nazi resistance leader, Kurt Mller, brings his American wife, Sara, and their three children to visit Sara's wealthy mother near Washington, DC, after living for years amidst European turmoil. Beneath the veneer of a family reunion, Kurt secretly operates within a dangerous underground movement against fascism. Their fragile peace is shattered when a discerning Romanian count, also a guest, uncovers Kurt's clandestine involvement. This revelation ignites a tense cat-and-mouse game within the confines of the family estate, as the count attempts to leverage his knowledge for blackmail, placing Kurt's mission, his family's safety, and the broader resistance effort in grave jeopardy. The film masterfully explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the personal cost of political conviction against a backdrop of impending global conflict.

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Cast and Characters

Director: Herman Shumlin Main Cast: Bette Davis as Sara Mller: The devoted American wife, steadfastly supporting her husband's perilous anti-Nazi resistance efforts while grappling with the immense personal risks. Paul Lukas as Kurt Mller: The principled and stoic German anti-Nazi resistance fighter, whose quiet determination masks a profound inner turmoil and unwavering commitment to his cause. Supporting Cast: Geraldine Fitzgerald as Marthe de Brancovis: A perceptive and compassionate guest, whose growing awareness of the unfolding drama adds a layer of moral complexity. George Coulouris as Teck de Brancovis: The shrewd, opportunistic Romanian count, whose self-serving nature and blackmail attempts drive much of the film's suspense. Lucile Watson as Fanny Farrelly: Sara's strong-willed, initially sheltered mother, who is forced to confront the harsh realities of the looming war and its impact on her family. Beulah Bondi as Anise: The loyal and observant housekeeper, a quiet witness to the escalating tension within the household.

What people like about Watch on the Rhine

Audiences and critics alike lauded Watch on the Rhine for its powerful and timely message against fascism, delivered with exceptional dramatic force. Paul Lukas's Academy Award-winning performance as Kurt Mller was universally praised for its profound gravitas and moving portrayal of a man driven by conviction. Bette Davis received acclaim for her restrained yet deeply empathetic performance as Sara, a departure that highlighted her versatility. Reviewers particularly appreciated the intelligent and faithful adaptation of Lillian Hellman's celebrated play, noting how effectively the film translated its intense, character-driven narrative to the screen. The production's ability to maintain a claustrophobic tension within a seemingly domestic setting, while conveying the vast stakes of the global conflict, was frequently highlighted as a major strength. Many found the film to be a compelling and enduring testament to moral courage during wartime.

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Movie Score

69%

Released

August 27, 1943

Director

Herman Shumlin

Cast

Bette Davis, Paul Lukas, Geraldine Fitzgerald, George Coulouris, Lucile Watson, Beulah Bondi

Genre

Drama, Thriller

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