Diplomacy

Diplomacy is a 2012 French drama film directed by Volker Schlöndorff, which tells the story of the courageous act of Swedish consul Raoul Nordling as he navigates a complex web of politics and morality to save the city of Paris from destruction during World War II. The film is set on the night of August 24, 1944, when the Allies have just liberated southern France. Meanwhile, General Dietrich von Choltitz, a German officer who has been tasked by Adolf Hitler to destroy the city of Paris, is preparing to fulfill his orders. According to plan, von Choltitz will detonate explosives throughout the city, killing thousands of civilians and reducing the once-vibrant capital to rubble. However, unbeknownst to von Choltitz, the general's men have been secretly negotiating with the French Resistance to spare the city. As the clock ticks away, Swedish consul Raoul Nordling becomes aware of the sinister plan to destroy Paris. Determined to prevent the slaughter of innocent civilians, Nordling takes matters into his own hands and decides to take on the task of convincing von Choltitz to defy Hitler's orders. Nordling knows that it will be a challenging and perilous mission, but he believes that the general's conscience can be reached through diplomacy and personal charm. Nordling, played by Jacob Dodd, approaches von Choltitz at his headquarters and begins to reason with him. He points out the importance of preserving the city's historical and cultural heritage, as well as the lives of its inhabitants. However, the general remains unmoved, convinced that he is carrying out his duty to Hitler. Nordling refuses to give up and instead, he resorts to using his knowledge of German military protocol and procedures to convince the general that destroying Paris will not benefit Germany in the long run. Meanwhile, tensions rise within von Choltitz's command as his staff becomes increasingly divided on what to do next. Some officers believe that following Hitler's orders is the only way to stay loyal, while others see the devastating consequences of destruction for the city and its people. As the hours pass, von Choltitz becomes increasingly isolated, unable to make a decision that will either save or destroy Paris. Throughout the film, Nordling continues to reason with von Choltitz, appealing to his humanity and his sense of responsibility. He reminds the general that he is not just a soldier carrying out orders, but a man with a conscience and a duty to preserve life. However, von Choltitz remains stubborn and determined to fulfill his orders, despite the mounting protests from his staff and the pleas of Nordling. As the night wears on and the city teeters on the brink of destruction, Nordling becomes increasingly desperate. He knows that time is running out and that he may not be able to save Paris. He decides to use his diplomatic connections to persuade other German officers to defy von Choltitz's orders, but his efforts are met with resistance from the general's loyal followers. In a heart-stopping climax, Nordling manages to persuade von Choltitz to defy Hitler and spare Paris. The general realizes that destroying the city will only serve to fuel hatred towards Germany and ultimately contribute to its defeat. In a moment of defiance, von Choltitz refuses to fulfill his orders, and the destruction of Paris is averted. With the city saved, Nordling and von Choltitz share a moment of triumph, aware that they have done something extraordinary in the face of overwhelming odds. As the Allies enter the city, Paris is reborn, and the people rejoice at their newfound freedom. Diplomacy is a gripping and emotional film that pays homage to the courage of Swedish consul Raoul Nordling and the bravery of General Dietrich von Choltitz. It highlights the complexities of war and the power of diplomacy in the face of overwhelming adversity. Through its thought-provoking narrative and striking performances, the film offers a testament to the human spirit's capacity for compassion, empathy, and resilience.