I am not going to defend Tom Cruises’ recent track record, it’s not important these days. Despite those ridiculous and highly publicized fiascoes, his new World War II movie, “Valkyrie” is definitely going to receive a lot of critical and popular attention. This is because of the historic significance of his character, Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, who plotted to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Stauffenberg is one of the true heroes of World War II, who gave up almost everything, including his life, to try to stop one of the most evil men of the 20th century. Stauffenberg’s story alone is powerful enough to be appreciated and examined, no matter who portrays him in the film. Stauffenberg was a dutiful German soldier from an influential Catholic family in the pre-Nazi Weimar Republic era. After witnessing the continual persecution of Catholic priests in Germany and realizing Hitler’s destructive nature, Stauffenberg assembled a team of equally devoted patriots to assassinate Hitler with small portable bomb.Their mission was extremely secretive and well-planned, but eventually went awry (no spoilers for you). All involved in the mission confessed their part in the plot and were subsequently executed. Today, Stauffenberg is a national hero in Germany. He stood up to danger and died for his country and humanity.
Cruise has striking physical similarities to the colonel, which probably contributed to his casting in the role. It’s said that Cruise didn’t know the history of Stauffenberg until he was given a profile picture of the Colonel’s face, which was nearly identical to his. It’s comforting to know that Cruise didn’t arrogantly insert his overbearing ’80s presence into an unspoiled project. After Cruise agreed to commit to the project, the director of the movie went on to film in many of the historical locations, featuring authentic areas in Germany and the Black Forest.
The film high production value has helped United Artists put “Valkyrie” on the path to success, both critically and popularly. UA also hired some of the best editors like John Ottman to heighten the intensity of the suspenseful story, and Cruise met with Stauffenberg’s surviving family members to ensure historical accuracy. Lofty goals have been set and rigorously pursued. The film has already received an extremely favorable press screening.“Valkyrie” opens on Christmas Day throughout the U.S.