The Keeper
The Keeper

Movie spotlight

The Keeper

2018
Movie
114 min
German

The story of a man whose love for football, for England and for the love of his life, Margaret, saw him rise from Nazi 'villain' to British hero. Bert Trautmann, the German goalkeeper won over even his harshest opponents by winning the FA Cup Final for Manchester City in 1956 - playing on with a broken neck to secure victory.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Google Users86% liked this
Director: Kieran Darcy-SmithGenres: Biography, Drama, Sport, Romance

Plot Summary

Based on a true story, 'The Keeper' follows the life of German prisoner of war Franz Ridder, who is brought to England after World War II. He is forced to work as a coal miner, but his passion for football gives him a chance at a new life. Franz becomes a legendary goalkeeper for a local club, facing prejudice and finding love amidst the challenges of post-war Britain.

Critical Reception

The film received a mixed to positive reception from critics, with many praising its heartwarming true story and strong performances, particularly from David Kross. However, some reviewers found the pacing uneven and the narrative predictable.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its inspiring true story and David Kross's compelling performance.

  • Some critics found the film's narrative arc to be somewhat formulaic.

  • The emotional journey of overcoming adversity resonated with many viewers.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated 'The Keeper' for its uplifting narrative about an unlikely hero. Many highlighted the emotional impact of Franz's story and his resilience in the face of adversity. The film's blend of sports drama and personal triumph was a common point of praise.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the true story of Bert Trautmann, a German prisoner of war who became a legendary goalkeeper for Manchester City.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Jack (John Henshaw) does a bit of black marketeering as the second world war comes to a close and it's a visit to a British POW camp that introduces him to the lithe Bert Trautmann (David Kross) whom he reckons is impressive in goal. He man...

SWITCH.

SWITCH.

I wouldn’t call ‘The Keeper’ a great film, but certainly a good one with one hell of a story to tell. War tales are a dime a dozen, but this is certainly a unique story and the first I’ve heard that incorporates the world’s game. I can’t im...