TAKING SIDES

Cinemavixion Review

István Szabó's "Taking Sides" delves into the complex moral landscape of post-war Germany through the lens of Wilhelm Furtwängler, the esteemed conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic. Starring Harvey Keitel and Stellan Skarsgård, the film masterfully explores the tension between art and politics as Furtwängler faces an Allied investigation into his alleged complicity with the Nazi regime. Skarsgård delivers a nuanced performance as the conductor, whose defense rests on the separation of artistic integrity from political allegiance, a notion challenged by the unyielding American Major Arnold, portrayed with steely resolve by Keitel. The film, released in 2001, earned critical acclaim, including 9 wins and 3 nominations, and garnered a respectable 7.1 rating on IMDb. It prompts viewers to consider the difficult choices individuals made during tumultuous times and the enduring power of art amidst political turmoil.