Being watched or listened to without consenting knowledge is a frightening prospect. Here are some dramatic accounts of such scenarios.

The Lives of Others

The Lives Of Others (2006) is directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck. An East German playwright and his girlfriend become the target of government surveillance. Their most intimate moments are recorded by the chief monitor, who over time, begins to understand the playwright’s sincere beliefs. Morality and corruption all come into play as the disturbing plot unfolds. The Lives Of Others is well conceived and skillfully executed. It is a truly gripping tale with historical significance.

Caché

Cach’ (2005) is directed by Austrian filmmaker Michael Haneke. The story starts off in the vein of David Lynch’s Lost Highway surveillance scenes but then steers toward an Alfred Hitchcock type mystery. Cach’ ultimately reveals the past coming back in an attempt to right certain perceived wrongs. In his noted style, Haneke leaves you with more questions than answers. His films wear the proud badge of grotesque intellect that nearly forces you to contemplate the unpleasant.

The Conversation

The Conversation (1974) is directed by Francis Ford Coppola and stars Gene Hackman. Hackman’s character is hired to record a couple’s conversation at a public area in San Francisco. He becomes disillusioned as he begins to suspect foul play as the motive for being hired. The Conversation is somewhat understated and was deemed artsy by a ’70s standard, but it also benefits from a fantastic Jazz soundtrack provided by composer David Shire.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience.  Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.