*Potential spoilers ahead* Long, but really not absorbing, drama of the Berlin wall, as seen through the eyes of young lovers. Set up against such an oppressive atmosphere as the new DDR (Communist East), the story spans almost thirty years.
Frankly, it was numbing to see the protagonist (Konrad) bumbling about to and fro, as to whether he really wanted to leave the "Worker's Paradise." Well, as the saying goes: Indecision is a decision. Konrad's father is a party member, and he is bright. He'll achieve and live well, if he stays politically on the right side of the party. No one could condemn Konrad if he did. Nobody purposely tries to make their life miserable, unless they like pain.
This issue really lies at the heart of exactly what is wrong, with DAS VERSPRECHEN. The plot tends to amble, and we are introduced to characters with names and backgrounds. They enter the story, and without or very limited explanation, they pass through the checkpoint into oblivion. Unfortunately, so does the unwilling viewer.
By the time we are way into the movie, and Konrad still tries to fool himself, by defending his unwillingness to go to the West on a trip of his shoe laces. It is then, when the viewer not only has lost any empathy or respect for him, but also might draw the ire of the viewer, as well.
THE PROMISE ponders way to much, and the passion of the characters tend to taper, due to the plodding script. It is recommended, however don't expect to be sitting on the edge of your seat. If you do, you might nod off and fall off.
Frankly, it was numbing to see the protagonist (Konrad) bumbling about to and fro, as to whether he really wanted to leave the "Worker's Paradise." Well, as the saying goes: Indecision is a decision. Konrad's father is a party member, and he is bright. He'll achieve and live well, if he stays politically on the right side of the party. No one could condemn Konrad if he did. Nobody purposely tries to make their life miserable, unless they like pain.
This issue really lies at the heart of exactly what is wrong, with DAS VERSPRECHEN. The plot tends to amble, and we are introduced to characters with names and backgrounds. They enter the story, and without or very limited explanation, they pass through the checkpoint into oblivion. Unfortunately, so does the unwilling viewer.
By the time we are way into the movie, and Konrad still tries to fool himself, by defending his unwillingness to go to the West on a trip of his shoe laces. It is then, when the viewer not only has lost any empathy or respect for him, but also might draw the ire of the viewer, as well.
THE PROMISE ponders way to much, and the passion of the characters tend to taper, due to the plodding script. It is recommended, however don't expect to be sitting on the edge of your seat. If you do, you might nod off and fall off.