Anthropoid Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two guys parachute in, mess up an assassination, and then hide in a church basement for six hours while Nazis try to flush them out, proving that even the worst day can be a long one.

🍿 Anthropoid: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Setup: Parachuting into Occupied Territory

In December 1941, Jozef Gabcík (Cillian Murphy), a Slovak, and Jan Kubiš (Jamie Dornan), a Czech, parachute into Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia. They are part of Operation Anthropoid, a mission to assassinate SS General Reinhard Heydrich. Upon landing, Jozef injures his leg, hindering their initial progress as they try to link up with the local resistance. Their first encounter goes awry when their contact turns out to be a traitor, forcing them to kill him and seek alternative routes to Prague.

Joining the Resistance and Planning the Assassination

In Prague, Jozef and Jan connect with Dr. Eduard, who assists them in contacting other resistance members. They meet Uncle Hajský (Toby Jones) and Ladislav Vaněk (Marcin Dorocinski), who lead a local cell. The two soldiers reveal their mission to assassinate Heydrich, sparking debate within the group. While some are supportive, others fear the inevitable brutal Nazi reprisal. Jozef and Jan are provided shelter with the Moravec family and begin planning the assassination with the help of Marie Kovárníková (Charlotte Le Bon) and Lenka Fafková (Anna Geislerová), who provide cover and support.

The Assassination Attempt and its Aftermath

On May 27, 1942, the assassination attempt takes place as Heydrich travels in his open-top Mercedes. Jozef’s Sten gun jams, preventing him from firing. Jan throws a grenade, which wounds Heydrich, though not fatally. The assassins escape, but Nazi forces immediately begin a massive crackdown. Heydrich succumbs to his injuries a week later. The combined group of parachutists are pursued to their refuge at the Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Prague.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jan Kubis (Jamie Dornan): A Czech soldier who parachutes into occupied Czechoslovakia to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich, grappling with the mission’s potential consequences.
• Josef Gabcík (Cillian Murphy): A Slovak soldier and the determined leader of Operation Anthropoid, tasked with assassinating Reinhard Heydrich.
• Reinhard Heydrich (Detlef Bothe): The ruthless SS General and main architect of the Final Solution, whose assassination is the objective of Operation Anthropoid.
• Marie Kovárníková (Charlotte Le Bon): A member of the Czech resistance who assists the parachutists and develops a close relationship with Jan.
• Lenka Fafková (Anna Geislerová): A member of the Czech resistance who aids the parachutists and forms a connection with Jozef.
• Uncle Hajský (Toby Jones): A key figure in the Czech resistance who provides support and guidance to Jan and Josef.
• Karel Curda (Jiri Simek): A member of the Czech resistance who betrays his comrades to the Nazis in exchange for amnesty.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Josef Bublík: “‘Cowards die many times before their deaths; The valiant never taste of death but once.’ That’s Shakespeare.” – Bublík quotes Shakespeare to inspire courage and acceptance of fate.
• Ladislav Vaněk: “This assassination may be more of a means of bringing respect to the Czechoslovak government in exile in London.” – Ladislav expresses his concern that the assassination is more about political gain than the well-being of the Czech people.
• Jozef Gabcík: “Orders are orders.” – Jozef responds to Ladislav’s concerns about the potential repercussions of the assassination, showing his dedication to the mission.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $9,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $2,964,845
• Worldwide Gross: $5,079,219

💥 Anthropoid Reviews

Personal Review

Anthropoid really got to me. I knew the history, but seeing it play out with such intensity was something else. Cillian Murphy is amazing as Jozef, conveying so much with just a look. The scene in the church is unbelievably tense, and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had to look away during the torture scene of the young boy, it was very disturbing. The ending left me feeling somber, but also with a sense of respect for the courage of those involved.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical war dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in World War II resistance stories”
  • “Those who appreciate character-driven thrillers”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Torture scenes”
  • “Mature themes related to war and Nazi atrocities”

Professional Reviews

• The Guardian: “A tense and gripping historical thriller, Anthropoid avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the grim reality of resistance and the moral complexities of their actions. The film creates a palpable sense of dread that lingers long after the credits roll.
• Variety: “Anthropoid is a well-made, if somewhat restrained, depiction of a daring act of defiance. Cillian Murphy and Jamie Dornan deliver compelling performances, capturing the inner turmoil and quiet heroism of their characters. The film succeeds in honoring the bravery of the Czech resistance fighters.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “Director Sean Ellis creates a visceral and immersive experience, transporting viewers to Nazi-occupied Prague. The film’s strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of the brutal realities of war and the difficult choices faced by those who dared to resist. Though slow-paced at times, the final act delivers a powerful emotional punch.

Audience Reactions

The intense and realistic final shootout in the church kept me glued to my seat.: Viewers generally praise the film’s historical accuracy and the gripping portrayal of the assassination attempt and its aftermath.

Cillian Murphy’s performance was outstanding, portraying the internal conflict of his character perfectly.: The performances of the lead actors, especially Cillian Murphy and Jamie Dornan, are consistently praised for their depth and emotional impact.

Overall Consensus: Anthropoid is a well-crafted and intense historical thriller that honors the bravery of the Czech resistance fighters, though some find the pacing slow and the accents distracting.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot on location in Prague, Czech Republic, using many of the actual historical sites where the events took place, adding to the film’s authenticity.”
• “Director Sean Ellis meticulously researched the historical events, striving for accuracy in the portrayal of Operation Anthropoid and its aftermath.”

🖥️ How to Watch Anthropoid?

Anthropoid is available for streaming on various platforms including Prime Video (via subscription or purchase), Apple TV (for purchase or rental), and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable VOD options. Physical copies (DVD/Blu-ray) are widely available for purchase online and in stores, providing a convenient way to own the film.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Anthropoid, you might like these similar films:

• Operation Daybreak (1975): Tells the same story of Operation Anthropoid with a focus on the planning and execution of the assassination.
• The Man with the Iron Heart (2017): Another film about Operation Anthropoid, providing a broader view of Heydrich’s character and the political context.
• Valkyrie (2008): Features a plot to assassinate a high-ranking Nazi official (Hitler), focusing on the planning, risks, and consequences.
• Black Book (2006): Follows a Jewish woman who infiltrates the German headquarters in the Netherlands during WWII, highlighting the risks and moral ambiguities of resistance.

🛒 Anthropoid Related Products

• Operation Anthropoid: The Czech Resistance Against Reinhard Heydrich: A detailed account of the historical events that inspired the film, providing deeper insights into the mission and its consequences.
• ICM Models 1/35 German Wehrmacht Elite Troops (World War II): Build and paint a model of German Wehrmacht Elite Troops involved in conflict during World War II. Excellent likeness and highly detailed.
• World War II: Strategy Commander: Engage in the tactical and strategic aspects of the WWII, commanding troops and making crucial decisions in a dynamic battlefield.
• Sten Gun MK II Submachine Gun: Scale model of the Sten MK II Submachine Gun, a weapon used by the Czech resistance fighters in the film.

🎧 Soundtrack

Anthropoid features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Sonata for Solo Violin” – performed by Béla Bartók
• “Silent Night” – performed by Traditional
• “Svata Maria” – performed by Traditional Czech Hymn

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Jamie Dornan Switches From Sexy to Serious for Anthropoid

Ever wondered how an actor goes from a role like Christian Grey to a serious war drama? Jamie Dornan breaks down his approach to ‘Anthropoid’ in this interview, and it’s actually super interesting to hear his perspective on the challenge!

“We both find me very funny.”😂#cillianmurphy #jamiedornan #shorts #youtubeshorts

Need a quick laugh? Check out this compilation of Cillian Murphy and Jamie Dornan being hilarious together while promoting ‘Anthropoid’. It’s a fun little break from the movie’s intensity and shows their great chemistry!

Supporter Exclusive Book (and Movie) Review – Anthropoid

Want to dive deeper into the true story behind ‘Anthropoid’? This review combines a discussion of the film with insights from a related book, giving you a more complete understanding of the historical event. I found the extra context super helpful, and I think you will too!

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