The Ethical Maze of War-Time Diplomacy Explored

Read Time:3 Minute, 48 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
A Forgotten Man
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Genre: Drama, History, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 28m
Director(s): Laurent Nègre
Writer(s): Laurent Nègre
Cast: Michael Neuenschwander, Manuela Biedermann, Yann Philipona, Cléa Eden, Peter Wyssbrod, Sabine Timoteo
Language: German, French, and English with English subtitles
Where To Watch: in select theaters April 12, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: A FORGOTTEN MAN explores Switzerland’s untold story during World War II and offers more than just a history lesson. Directed with a keen eye for detail by Laurent Nègre, it spotlights the moral dilemmas and internal struggles that plagued individuals in the aftermath of war. Through Michael Neuenschwander's portrayal of Heinrich Zwygart, we’re treated to a riveting exploration of a man torn between duty and conscience, wrapped in a visually striking black-and-white palette that adds depth and nuance to every scene.

Forget the usual battlefield dramas. A FORGOTTEN MAN offers a different wartime film and sets sights on the complex world of diplomatic intrigue and ethical ambiguity. The film turns its visuals into a metaphor for the murky decisions and moral compromises of Zwygart's world, making for a gripping narrative that goes beyond the traditional historical period piece drama.

Neuenschwander doesn’t just act as Zwygart; he embodies the essence of a man caught in an ethical storm. His performance, especially in the charged exchanges with a determined young journalist, propels the narrative forward, offering a personal look into the broader issues of neutrality and moral accountability.

Nègre’s meticulous craftsmanship shines through in the film's attention to period detail and its commitment to depth. The sets and costumes serve as silent narrators, adding to the story and immersing the audience in the era. The core issues at the heart of A FORGOTTEN MAN—questions of neutrality, the cost of peace, and the weight of leadership—resonate far beyond the 1940s, reflecting on dilemmas still relevant today.

A FORGOTTEN MAN does more than recount Switzerland's wartime history; it challenges viewers to reconsider what it means to be neutral. By delving into the internal conflicts and the high stakes of diplomatic decisions, the film paints a compelling picture of the world hiding behind Switzerland’s peaceful stance.

Nègre doesn’t just want audiences to watch; he wants them to think, reflect, and question. This film acts as a mirror, showcasing the intricacies of human decisions and the lasting impact of history on individual lives and national identities. It’s a cinematic experience that’s not only enlightening but also entertaining.

Despite its many strengths, A FORGOTTEN MAN sometimes loses its way. The film's measured pace, meant to build depth and tension, can occasionally feel sluggish, leaving viewers wishing for more drama and a little less contemplation. Additionally, while intellectually stimulating, its commitment to ambiguity can leave those craving clear-cut answers a tad unsatisfied.

A FORGOTTEN MAN stands as a testament to the power of film to explore complex historical narratives and human emotions. While it may not be perfect, stumbling a bit in pace and clarity, it sheds light on the unseen aspects of Switzerland's role in World War II. This film is an invitation to journey into the past, challenging us to see beyond the surface of history and delve into the personal dilemmas that define our humanity.

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[photo courtesy of SOVEREIGN]

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