The Baader Meinhof Complex

Movie: The Baader Meinhof Complex

I saw it on: September 15, 2009

Cast: Martina Gedeck, Moritz Bleibtreu, Johanna Wokalek, Bruno Ganz, Vinzenz Kiefer, Nadja Uhl

Genre: Political Thriller, Docudrama

Synopsis: In the late 1960’s, a group of radicals called the Red Army Faction (RAF) was formed in West Germany.  The RAF members were from the first generation of post World War II.  They were convinced that West Germany was slipping back into Socialism.  They were also violently opposed to the U.S. involvement in Vietnam and to Israel’s refusal to recognize Palestinians.  This movie traces the movement from its early dyas when it was pretty unorganized to the years that it terrorized Germany with bombings to the eventual capture and trial of its ring-leaders.

My two cents: A fascinating movie.  Although I had heard of the RAF, I had no idea how violent and disruptive the group was in the 60’s and 70’s.  I was in my teens and twenties in the 60’s and 70’s, but seem to have managed to never take note of the RAF activities.  Anyhow, although a bit long at 2 ½ hours, it was well worth seeing.