The Debt

Did you enjoy Munich? This viewer thought it was great. The Debt is equally as powerful. But it's actually about two women who do the work of warriors. Helen Mirren as the older agent, and Jessica Chastain as the agent in her prime, steal the show from all the other performers.

The story? Much like Munich, it's about Israelis who strive to bring perpetrators of murder to justice. Sadly, in real life, only a handful of Holocaust sadists were captured and tried for their crimes, fifteen or so at Nurenburg and most notably, Adolph Eichman. In spite of Simon Weisenthal and other determined Nazi hunters, the vast majority got away with their crimes.

With these facts in mind, it's inspiring to watch a movie where Israelis hunt down a war criminal. No spoiler, as usual, but the plot is really quite simple: three agents stalk the Butcher of Treblinka, a doctor who did ghastly experiments on prisoners. Do they succeed? If so, at what cost? Does the truth matter more than the success of the mission?

Jessica Chastain, a little-known model who miraculously landed this role, shines as the beautiful young Israeli Mossad agent who, until now, has worked at desk jobs. She must prove herself in the field to two more jaded, experienced Nazi hunters. Fast-forward to the present, where Helen Mirren (who looks somewhat like the younger Jessica), is the old gramma being feted for her past deeds. But is she worthy of the praise? What must she do now to prove her mettle? Is she too old to go back out in the field?

What a great film! For those viewers like me who really admire empowered women, the flick grabs and holds on. Prepare to sit on the edge of your seat for the entire movie.

Grade of A. An outstanding work, bold in design, lofty of purpose, and full of fine acting and a gripping plot.