THE EXCEPTION is exceptional! Based on the novel 'The Kaiser's Last Kiss' as adapted for the screen by Simon Burke and directed with great sensitivity by David Leveaux this quiet little film offers insights into the Germany as usurped by Adolf Hitler from Kaiser Wilhelm II – a portion of history rarely mentioned or filmed.
Captain Stefan Brandt, a German soldier (Jai Courtney) tries to determine if the Dutch resistance has planted a spy to infiltrate the home of Kaiser Wilhelm II (Christopher Plummer) in Holland during the onset of World War II, but falls for a young Jewish Dutch woman Mieke de Jong (Lily James) during his investigation. Living in a lavish mansion in Holland the Kaiser is accompanied by his wife Princess Hermine (Janet McTeer), Col. Sigurd von Ilsemann (Ben Daniels), and General Falkenberg (Anton Lesser). When they are visited by Himmler (Eddie Marsan) the energy between Stefan and Mieke strengthens and the manner in which Mieke is saved form discovery as a spy provides a satisfying conclusion to the story.
Excellent acting, lush photography (Roman Osin), a fine music score (Ilan Eshkeri), and reminder of the 'transition' between a monarchy and Hitler's Third Reich make for a very excellent film.
Captain Stefan Brandt, a German soldier (Jai Courtney) tries to determine if the Dutch resistance has planted a spy to infiltrate the home of Kaiser Wilhelm II (Christopher Plummer) in Holland during the onset of World War II, but falls for a young Jewish Dutch woman Mieke de Jong (Lily James) during his investigation. Living in a lavish mansion in Holland the Kaiser is accompanied by his wife Princess Hermine (Janet McTeer), Col. Sigurd von Ilsemann (Ben Daniels), and General Falkenberg (Anton Lesser). When they are visited by Himmler (Eddie Marsan) the energy between Stefan and Mieke strengthens and the manner in which Mieke is saved form discovery as a spy provides a satisfying conclusion to the story.
Excellent acting, lush photography (Roman Osin), a fine music score (Ilan Eshkeri), and reminder of the 'transition' between a monarchy and Hitler's Third Reich make for a very excellent film.