Funeral in Berlin (1966)

Funeral in Berlin (1966)

Comments 3 comments

“I like you, English — you’re not as stupid as you look.”

Synopsis:
When British spy Harry Palmer (Michael Caine) is sent to Berlin to help facilitate the journey of a would-be defector (Oscar Homolka), he meets up with the German head of a British intelligence station (Paul Hubschmid), and is seduced by a beautiful Israeli model (Eva Renzi) who he suspects is likely also a spy of some kind.

Genres, Themes, Actors, and Directors:

  • Cold War
  • Michael Caine Films
  • Spies

Review:
Goldfinger (1964)-director Guy Hamilton — who went on to direct several more Bond flicks — helmed this adaptation of Len Deighton’s novel of the same name, once again starring Michael Caine as former-criminal-turned-spy Harry Palmer, as previously seen in The Ipcress File (1965). The storyline is predictably dense and complicated, with countless double agents, hidden agendas, secret alliances, and violent encounters:

… as well as a sexy, overly-convenient dalliance between Caine and Renzi.

The title funeral refers to an elaborate escape plan involving a coffin and shadowy tunnels:

… which is atmospherically shot through the streets of Berlin, as are many other scenes. Don’t worry too much about who is who, since all is revealed by the end — and you can always read a synopsis to catch up on details.

Notable Performances, Qualities, and Moments:

  • Michael Caine as Harry Palmer
  • Otto Heller’s cinematography
  • Fine location shooting in Berlin

Must See?
Yes, as a finely crafted spy thriller.

Categories

  • Good Show

Links:

3 thoughts on “Funeral in Berlin (1966)”

  1. You reckon this is must see (60% on Rotten Tomatoes), but not Ipcress File (97%) which is historically much more significant and revered?!

  2. Rewatch 12/26/20.

    A once-must, as a worthy follow-up to ‘The Ipcress File’.

    There seems to be a general opinion that ‘FIB’ is not only the best of the 3 Palmer films but considerably superior to ‘TIF’. I wouldn’t agree. ‘FIB’ is more straightforward (in its own way; though still holding an air of not knowing who to trust) but its strength is equal to the first film. It’s just not as dark. But otherwise it’s as tough and equally compelling.

    If the plot is sometimes in danger of not making sense, that’s appropriate for the territory. Nevertheless, all becomes clear by the film’s conclusion.

    With this return, Caine has grown into his character comfortably and an added plus here is Homolka’s somewhat ‘jovial’ supporting turn. As well, there are some genuine, brain-teasing surprises.

  3. I’ve always found that the critical consensus is rate The Ipcress File far superior. It’s the only one that really gets mentioned and revived (recently remade for UK TV – changes too much and is significantly inferior). Billion-Dollar Brain gets more mentions generally probably due to being directed by Ken Russell. The less said about the two ’90s TV movies the better.

Leave a Reply