The Baader Meinhof Complex
The Baader Meinhof Complex

The Baader Meinhof Complex

2008Movie149 minGerman

When German police viciously quell a protest against the shah of Iran, popular journalist Ulrike Meinhof rebels against her dishonest marriage, walks away from her children and joins radical anarchist Andreas Baader. Together with Baader's girlfriend, Gudrun Ensslin, they form the violent Red Faction Army, and together perpetrate a slew of terrorist attacks as a way of disrupting the fabric of what they see as an increasingly fascist state.

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IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes70%
Metacritic67/100
Google Users81%
Director: Uli EdelGenres: Crime, Drama, History, Thriller

Plot Summary

This film chronicles the rise and fall of the Red Army Faction (RAF), a far-left militant group operating in West Germany during the late 1960s and 1970s. It focuses on the key figures, including Andreas Baader, Gudrun Ensslin, and Ulrike Meinhof, detailing their radicalization, violent actions, and eventual capture and deaths. The narrative explores the political climate that fueled their insurgency and the state's response.

Critical Reception

The Baader Meinhof Complex was generally well-received by critics for its ambitious scope, intense performances, and historical accuracy in depicting a turbulent period of German history. While some found its length daunting, most praised its unflinching portrayal of the RAF's ideology and violent trajectory, as well as its exploration of the complex political and social issues of the era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gripping portrayal of a radical political group.
  • Commended for its historical detail and unflinching look at terrorism.
  • Noted for strong performances from the lead actors.

Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be a compelling and informative look at the Baader-Meinhof group, appreciating its historical context and the powerful performances. Many felt it effectively conveyed the intensity and complexity of the period.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 81st Academy Awards. Won Best Film and Best Supporting Actress (Martina Gedeck) at the Bavarian Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in chronological order, which helped the actors immerse themselves in the characters' journey and the escalating intensity of the story.

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