Review of Sass

Sass (2001)
8/10
Good period gangster drama
11 September 2001
I've seen this film in a sneak preview, it will be on screen in a few weeks.

I have no idea if this film will see any international distribution at all, but it would be worth it.

The plot: The film is (fairly loosely) based on the real life of the brothers Sass, two legendary burglars and safecrackers in the Berlin of the 20s and early 30s. The film is very free with the actual facts of their story but that doesn't really distract from the quality. The film shows the rise of the brothers from their beginnings as car mechanics to the "Robin Hoods of Berlin".

Technically the film is very well done, colors, cinematography, and even the score reminded me of the great American gangster films like "the Untouchables" or "Once upon a time in America". The Cast is brilliant, right down to minor supporting roles. Ben Becker and Jürgen Vogel show a wide scope of their considerable talent. Otto Sander as their father uses his few scenes to make a real impression.

The sets, costumes ect. are stylish and very well done too, sucking the audience right into both the working class quarters and the upper class clubs and bars of the Berlin of the roaring 20s.

My only complain is the end which stylizes the brothers a bit too much for my taste.
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