False notes in The Counterfeiters

The Counterfeiters

Director: Stefan Ruzowitzky

Cast: Karl Markovics, Devid Streisow

Cert: 15

A grim story set in Nazi Germany where Markovics, not the nicest of people, is an expert counterfeiter of bank notes; something the SS reckon will come in handy. But will the self-seeking faker work for his captors or will he find redemption and do the right thing?

We have here a resolutely downbeat film yet one with a surprisingly strong streak of humanity running through it. It is, too, yet another example of the German cinema’s willingness to examine the country’s past with honesty.

Star Rating: 4/5