The Exception

This is a movie and in my humble opinion is totally underrated. Yes, there are a few flaws but don't most movies have them? The story starts off slow but soon picks up and keeps you interested to the final credits. Christopher Plummer as usual plays the part to perfection. As do most of the characters in the movie. I really enjoyed this movie and highly recommend it.

The Exception works a good premise into a rollicking spy-romance that, once it hits its stride, delivers on both the suspense and the action. In that sense, it's an old-fashioned movie - one that hooks you in, stays just a step ahead and doesn't out-stay its welcome. Christopher Plummer gives a bravura performance as the former Kaiser. Janet McTeer is typically excellent as his wife. And the two young leads are attractive, in and out of their clothes, if no threat to Streep and DeNiro. Okay, so the story doesn't entirely accord with historical fact. Yes, Wilhelm never quite gave up on a restoration of the monarchy. Yes, Hermine actively petitioned the Nazi's on his behalf. But that's about where it ends. In truth, Wilhelm was as much an anti-semite as the Nazis. And the Nazis thought him an old fool, not worth bothering with. Still, it's worth the suspension of disbelief for the duration of the movie.

I'm giving this an "8" simply for the fine acting and commanding presence of Christopher Plummer (I keep wanting to say "Sir Christopher Plummer") as the aged but sprightly and opinionated Kaiser Wilhelm II. I'm torn between calling this the most enjoyable silly film, or the silliest enjoyable film, I've seen in a while, but I found it captivating, even though it's almost certainly sheer fiction regarding any historical accuracy. Although I relished the early and frequent appearance of nudity and rampant sex, what I really wanted more of was extra screen time for the Kaiser's extensive wardrobe of military and imperial uniforms. Notable acting props also to Janet McTeer as the Kaiser's consort, and to Eddie Marsan as a glum, coldly business-like Heinrich Himmler.

This is the main reason to see this picture, an old-timer at the top of his game at the ripe old age of 87. Acting skill and impeccable timing still at its best as he enters the character of Kaiser Wilhelm hoping to make a comeback as the ruler of his beloved homeland. He gets scant help from the two principals, Lily James and Jai Courtney, and you find yourself waiting for Plummer's next appearance.

The story which has been recounted in other reviews is good and is basically a love story between James and Courtney. There is little action in this character study, but mention must be made of Eddie Marsan, who gives a hypnotic and creepy performance as Heinrich Himmler, Hitler's Gestapo Chief. His portrayal is chilling and repulsive and he is an arresting presence on screen (no pun intended). "The Exception" is interesting and absorbing - especially when Plummer is front and center.

Much like most of the people who will watch this movie, it caught my eye simply because of my obsession with films based around the war, and this time in history.

This film is not very historically accurate, so if that is important to you, you better stay away. HOWEVER if you do don't much care for historical accuracy, and you are looking for a Nazi War Film with superb acting, then this is DEFINITELY the film for you!

The Acting, wardrobe, and cinematography were all excellent in this movie!

(7/10) - The only reason i am giving this movie a 7/10 is because this movie is somewhat predicable, as is the case for most "Romantic Movies", but it is still an amazing story that i would recommend anyone to watch!