Five Cartridges

Synopsis

Five Cartridges (Fünf Patronenhülsen) is a 1960 German film directed by Frank Beyer, set in the aftermath of World War II. The story follows a group of survivors who come across five cartridges in the ruins of a town. As they try to find out the significance of these cartridges, they are faced with moral dilemmas and conflicting interests. The film delves into themes of post-war trauma, survival, and the human capacity for both compassion and cruelty. The performances, particularly by Armin Mueller-Stahl, are praised for their emotional depth and authenticity, making Five Cartridges an enduring classic in German cinema.

Cast

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  Erwin Geschonneck

  Kommissar Witting

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  Ulrich Thein

  Wasja der Russe

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  Edwin Marian

  Jose der Spanier

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  Ernst-Georg Schwill

  Willi der Deutsche

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  Armin Mueller-Stahl

  Pierre, der Franzose

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  Manfred Krug

  Oleg der Pole

Reviews

Five Cartridges has garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. While some appreciate its historical significance and thought-provoking narrative, others find the pacing slow and the character development lacking. The film's portrayal of the devastation of war and its impact on individuals has been commended for its realism and sensitivity. Rotten Tomatoes describes it as a 'gripping portrayal of post-war struggles' with a rating of 3.5/5. IMDb users have rated it 6.7/10, with many praising Armin Mueller-Stahl's performance and the cinematography. Metacritic gives it a score of 65 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews.