Rating of
3/4
"Black Book" by Yojimbo
Yojimbo - wrote on 04/26/19
A young Jewish woman in wartime Holland becomes an undercover operative passing secrets to the Dutch resistance by seducing a high ranking German officer.
Based upon a true story, Black Book is not as salacious or violent as most of Paul Verhoeven’s back catalogue, known as he is for the likes of Robocop, Starship Troopers, Basic Insinct and Showgirls; it does have its share of nudity and blood but they are used in a far less gratuitous way. The story of wartime intrigue may not have the power of the likes of Schindler’s List, but its Dutch setting shows a side of the conflict that has been examined in far less detail than most and the story is suitably tense as “Ellis” uses her feminine wiles to stay one step ahead of her Nazi would-be persecutors. The romantic element to the story is rather less convincing, but Carice Van Houten – now best known for her portrayal of The Red Woman in Game Of Thrones – is an always appealing, engaging and strong protagonist who never feels like a helpless victim.
Black Book will never be considered a classic, but it’s certainly a well made and played wartime thriller that’s well worth a look to fans of the genre.
