Entertainment
Cillian Murphy’s Underrated WWII Action Drama Is a Masterclass in Tension
The historical genre is awash with countless films and TV shows centered on World War II. The most tragic and bloody war in human history, unfortunately, provides the inspiration for stories — both true and fictional — that constantly enthrall us. When someone thinks of a classic World War II movie or show, they’ll likely mention Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, Dunkirk, Patton, or recent entries such as Brendan Fraser‘s Pressure. However, one film, Cillian Murphy‘s underrated 2016 thriller Anthropoid, gets left off of many lists.
What Is ‘Anthropoid’ About?
Anthropoid tells the story of Operation Anthropoid, the plot by the British special forces and operatives from the Czechoslovak resistance to assassinate high-ranking German general Reinhard Heydrich. One of the principal architects of the Holocaust and a high-ranking Nazi official, Heydrich was high on the hit list of the Allies and various resistance groups who fought against the German occupation. The film adaptation of the events sees Murphy, alongside Jamie Dornan, portray Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš, respectively. The two men were resistance fighters and former Czechoslovak soldiers sent by their government in exile back to Prague to carry out the assassination. Given that most World War II movies tell stories of Allied men and women, the fact that Anthropoid follows some of the unknown resistance fighters who also helped win the war — and does so in such a thrilling way — makes it worth your attention.
‘Anthropoid’ Tells a WWII Story You May Not Be Familiar With
Anthropoid avoids some of the usual trappings of war films, centering not on larger-than-life heroes undertaking some valiant mission for freedom. While their mission serves the Allies’ goal of freeing Europe from the Nazis, this operation involves assassination and guerrilla tactics. This is a fight over a knife in the mud, and not an epic, large-scale, sweeping battle with clearly defined sides. Additionally, except for Gabčík and Kubiš, many of the people involved in the operation were ordinary people fighting a brutal oppressor and who bravely stood against the tide of fascism. The courage of these people feels authentic because it’s rooted in fear and uncertainty, rather than cinematic invincibility.
Many World War II movies and shows center on battles such as D-Day, the Battle of the Bulge, or the Battle of Stalingrad, but the actions of ordinary heroes are too often overlooked. This is not the case with Anthropoid, as it sheds light on those who gave everything for their homes and families. The stakes are enormous in these events, and you can feel that tension in this film.
One of the biggest dilemmas facing the resistance fighters is the idea that if they are successful in their mission and do kill Heydrich, then the Nazis will simply replace him, and the reprisals will be swift and deadly. Known as one of the most sinister men in the Nazi regime and the “Butcher of Prague,” Heydrich ruled the city with an iron fist, with killings and disappearances being commonplace. It is here that the true gravity of their mission is felt on screen, and the tension is at its highest. It is not often that a dilemma arises in which leaving a true monster in place can be seen as the better option, but the discussion in the film gives the viewer something to consider.
Cillian Murphy Completely Steals the Show in ‘Anthropoid’
It’s no secret how talented of an actor Cillian Murphy is. His work in Oppenheimer was sublime, and his Academy Award-winning performance was more than earned. In Anthropoid, however, Murphy harkens back to his Peaky Blinders character Tommy Shelby, embracing the subterfuge and coldness necessary to play someone like Jozef Gabčík. He adopts the same gravely tone that fans of Peaky Blinders are familiar with, but with the persona of someone who seeks to defeat his enemies for a greater purpose than his own.
Jamie Dornan and Cillian Murphy on Balancing Fact and Fiction in ‘Anthropoid’
The two stars also talk about the extraordinary true story WWII drama, working with director Sean Ellis, and more.
Murphy’s ability to convey raw emotion through subtle expressions and quiet intensity is on full display here. He perfectly captures the burden that is placed on someone who leads a mission that could cost him and an entire city everything. Murphy might be known best for his performances in Peaky Blinders, Oppenheimer, and The Dark Knight trilogy, but he is at the very top of his game here.
‘Anthropoid’ Prioritizes Emotion Over Action
It’s certainly not the first World War II movie to portray events that not many people know about. However, in modern cinema where spectacle is valued over substance, Anthropoid values the humanity behind the actions of those involved rather than lean on the action. This isn’t to say that the film lacks action, but it is never the focus. This movie stands out as a thoughtful, intelligent, and deeply human portrayal of heroism in the face of impossible odds.
Ultimately, the film deserves far more recognition than it has received. While it is not perfect, it is a gripping historical thriller, and a powerful tribute to those who gave all in the service of others. Combining outstanding performances with relentless tension, the movie leaves a genuine emotional impact that lingers long after the credits roll.
- Release Date
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August 12, 2016
- Runtime
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120 minutes
- Director
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Sean Ellis
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