The Assassination
The Assassination

Movie spotlight

The Assassination

1972
Movie
123 min
French

Darien, a left-wing police informant, is forced to lure his old friend Sadiel to Paris, allegedly to film a television special about the Third World. Sadiel, the exiled leader of a North African state, is being hunted by the ruthless Colonel Kassar, who will stop at nothing to capture his political rival. Once Sadiel arrives in Paris, Darien realizes he has been manipulated. He tries to turn back the clock, not realizing what or who he’s truly dealing with.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Rainer Werner FassbinderGenres: Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A disillusioned political activist, disillusioned with the current state of affairs, becomes involved in a plot to assassinate a prominent industrialist. As the conspiracy unfolds, he finds himself caught between his ideological beliefs and the brutal reality of his actions. The film explores themes of political radicalism, betrayal, and the psychological toll of violence. It is a stark portrayal of disillusionment and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.

Critical Reception

The Assassination is a lesser-known work by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, often overshadowed by his more prominent films. It is appreciated by cinephiles for its early exploration of Fassbinder's signature themes and its bleak, intense atmosphere. While not as widely discussed as his later masterpieces, it is considered a significant piece in understanding his development as a filmmaker.

What Reviewers Say

  • A bleak and intense exploration of political radicalism and its consequences.

  • Showcases Fassbinder's early thematic concerns with a raw, unflinching style.

  • Offers a thought-provoking, albeit grim, look at disillusionment and violence.

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Fun Fact

Rainer Werner Fassbinder directed 'The Assassination' at the very young age of 23, showcasing his precocious talent and prolific output even in his early career.

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