The plot of "Counterpoint" might see ludicrous. However, during WWII, the USO provided entertainment for American troops--both at home and abroad. And, during the Battle of the Bulge, various performers were in Belgium entertaining the troops. In addition, during this surprising German offensive, the Germans frequently murdered their prisoners. All this being taken into account, "Counterpoint" doesn't see so far-fetched.
The film begins during an orchestral performance for US Army troops during a break in the war. However, in the midst of this, the Germans attack and the orchestra is soon taken prisoner. The German general in charge (Maximilliam Schell) presents himself as a decent, professional and cultured man. His second in command, the Colonel (Anton Diffring) is essentially a Nazi monster...a man who enjoys murdering prisoners. During much of the film, there is tension between the two, though ultimately the General agrees that AFTER the orchestra performs for him, the Colonel can do what he wants with them. The orchestra leader (Charlton Heston) knows what's in store for them and is trying to find some desperate solution other than to all walk willingly in front of a firing squad! What's next?
This is a very unusual war film...extremely unusual. It deserves to be seen just for that reason. However, it is NOT a great films...just a very good one. Much of it is because the film often seems very talky. There is, ultimately, lots of action at the end...but precious little before that. So much so that I am sure the film would bore some viewers.
The film begins during an orchestral performance for US Army troops during a break in the war. However, in the midst of this, the Germans attack and the orchestra is soon taken prisoner. The German general in charge (Maximilliam Schell) presents himself as a decent, professional and cultured man. His second in command, the Colonel (Anton Diffring) is essentially a Nazi monster...a man who enjoys murdering prisoners. During much of the film, there is tension between the two, though ultimately the General agrees that AFTER the orchestra performs for him, the Colonel can do what he wants with them. The orchestra leader (Charlton Heston) knows what's in store for them and is trying to find some desperate solution other than to all walk willingly in front of a firing squad! What's next?
This is a very unusual war film...extremely unusual. It deserves to be seen just for that reason. However, it is NOT a great films...just a very good one. Much of it is because the film often seems very talky. There is, ultimately, lots of action at the end...but precious little before that. So much so that I am sure the film would bore some viewers.