This is a really excellent film. I did find the use of the war-torn Beirut as a "backdrop" ethically troubling. To their credit, however, the director/crew also wrestled with the conflict between filming and helping people caught in a desperate situation. I base this latter statement on the DVD containing interviews and extra features. Hanna Scygulla and Bruno Ganz are outstanding. Possible spoiler?: Their interaction in the wonderful house as war rages around them leaves an indelible impression. The characters are complex as reflects the complexity of the situation and locale. Spoiler: Hanna S's decision to adopt a child she encounters is particularly nuanced and affecting.
Review of Circle of Deceit
Circle of Deceit
(1981)
excellent but location filming raises ethics concerns
22 September 2008
Warning: Spoilers