‘The Lives of Others’ (Lions Gate, €24.99) is a terrific work of terror, paranoia and betrayal set in East Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall.

From Germany a tale rich in character but somewhat complex, obscure even, in plotline. Yet well worth the watching.

A curious film this, in that it has been presented as a quality product packed with goodness and style and beauty - which, in a way, it is - yet ends up as empty and with no lasting memories.