The Lives of Others

In this outstanding Oscar winning, psychological and political thriller, we get a fascinating insight into the lengths and depths that the East European government went to in order to keep tabs on the lives of its population in the 80s. When cold and brutal official Wesler is given the task of spying on acclaimed playwright Dreyman and his actress girlfriend, he relishes the task, knowing that if he uncovers subversive behaviour he will gain favour with his boss. But the longer he listens in on the couple, their friendships, passions and ideas, the more he realises that his own life and the harsh political regime are lacking in colour and joy in many respects. Slowly he begins to doubt the morality of his job and politics. As the lines between orders and compassion become blurred, Wesler becomes more involved with his subject, walking a dangerous path between his duty and his new found reality.