Private Schulz
Private Schulz is a six-part 1981 television comedy-drama serial written by Jack Pulman and produced for BBC Two. It stars Michael Elphick in the title role, with Ian Richardson, Tony Caunter, Billie Whitelaw, Billy Murray, and Mark Wingett. Set primarily in Germany, during and immediately following World War II, fraudster and petty criminal Gerhard Schulz is forced to serve in the SS. In a story based on the real, though unrealised, plot by the Germans known as Operation Bernhard, Schulz tricks the Nazis into making counterfeit British £5 notes, millions of which will be used to destroy the British economy.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1944, as the Allied forces advance, a down-on-his-luck British con man named Charles Schultz is recruited by the British secret service. They train him to impersonate a German spy, intending to use him to feed misinformation to the Germans. Schultz, a master of deception, finds himself in a precarious position, playing a dangerous game of double-cross as he navigates the treacherous world of espionage.
Critical Reception
Private Schulz was a television play that garnered significant attention for its dark humor and critique of warfare and deception. It is often remembered for its ensemble cast and its sharp, satirical take on espionage during World War II.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its satirical wit and dark humor.
- Noted for its strong performances, particularly from Michael Elphick.
- Considered a clever and cynical commentary on espionage and the futility of war.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1981 television play is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The television play was based on a novel of the same name by Jack Pulman and was notable for its blend of comedy and tragedy in its portrayal of wartime deception.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources