Den of Hay

The Baader Meinhof Complex - 3 Stars (Potential for 4)

So, I had this film on my cue for a while, and finally decided to take a break from re-watching The Office (5 Starts) to give it a shot.

First Impressions: Johanna Wokalek is really hot.

Delving a bit deeper, I’ll say that this movie is successful as very subjective historical dramatization of the rise and fall of the RAF movement. As a “movie”, it’s so-so. 

Pros: The acting is superb, and the dialogues are equally exquisite. 

Cons: Unless you go into this with prior knowledge of the RAF movement and the political climate in which it emerged, then you’re left guessing and making up your own facts/assumptions as you go along. A very simple written introduction/set-up ala Star Wars would’ve gone a LONG way in combating this issue. Also, there is tons of information thrown at you and way too many characters of which to keep track. After a while, I stopped trying. I found it superfluous and unnecessary. 

Redeeming factor: Johanna Wokalek’s lips. Tho it’s hard to stare at them when you’re trying to focus on the subtitles.

Final thoughts: I definitely recommend this film, but do a little research on the Red Army Faction before you watch it.