Z (1969)

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ½

Z (1969) – Costa-Gavras

Even without knowing the details of the Greek political landscape of the 1960s, Costa-Gavras thinly veiled rendering of the assassination of a leftist leader (Yves Montand) by a conspiracy of conservative allies (including those high up in the government) is gripping stuff.  This won an Oscar for editing and it is easy to see why – the film moves along rapidly, showing events (as well as subjective “memories” from key players) as they unfold, from an array of perspectives.  By the time the investigating magistrate (Jean-Louis Trintignant) is appointed and starts to interview suspects, we have a pretty good take on who orchestrated things.  Still, it is thrilling to see the investigation unfold, as a cynical viewer is always ready for the forces of power and corruption to win out.  (This is not to say that they don’t).  Montand may only have a few minutes of screen time but he is perfect as the charismatic but reflective leader of the left – and those aligned against him are the same as those who have always been against progress and peace and his speech is the same kind of speech we hear today from those who are against war and want a more just and tolerant society.  So, yeah, 50 years later, not much has changed (including the use of assassination for political purposes).  For those who enjoy political dramas (the “fictional” kind), look no further.