Operation Eichmann (film)

Operation Eichmann is a 1961 American crime film directed by R. G. Springsteen, with Werner Klemperer in the title role. It is a highly fictionalized account of the life of the war criminal Adolf Eichmann, from his career as a member of the SS and an architect of the Holocaust to his kidnap in Argentina by the Mossad.

Operation Eichmann
Theatrical release poster used on the cover of a Warner Archive Collection Blu-ray
Directed byR. G. Springsteen
Written byLester Cole
Produced bySamuel Bischoff
David Diamond
StarringWerner Klemperer
John Banner
Ruta Lee
CinematographyJoseph Biroc
Edited byRoy V. Livingston
Production
company
Bischoff-Diamond Corporation
Distributed byAllied Artists Pictures
Release dates
  • March 15, 1961 (1961-03-15) (Detroit, Michigan)
Running time
90 minutes
CountryUnited States
LanguageEnglish

Plot

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After orchestrating the "Final Solution to the Jewish problem", when Germany is defeated at the end of WWII, Adolph Eichman utilizes underground networks and escapes to South America. Dissatisfied with his treatment, he attempts to assert his former authority over the organization. Realizing his delusional and dangerous demeanor, he is rebuffed and betrayed, and allowed to be captured by Mossad.

Cast

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Production

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Filming started 12 January 1961.[1]

Reception

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Operation Eichmann received an X-rating in the United Kingdom.[2] Philip K. Scheuer of the Los Angeles Times found this movie painfully distasteful, despite fair suspense.[3] Herb Kelly of The Miami News was disappointed with the movie's shallow nature, specifically its failure to provide any substantial characterization of the evil people it depicted.[4]

References

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  1. ^ "Hollywood Production Pulse". Variety. 18 January 1961. p. 26.
  2. ^ https://www.newspapers.com/image/931977798/?match=1&terms=%22Operation%20Eichmann%22%20 The Acton Gazette, 20 April 1961, p. 10.
  3. ^ https://www.newspapers.com/image/386289582/?match=1&terms=Operation%20Eichmann Los Angeles Times, 8 June 1961, p. 87
  4. ^ https://www.newspapers.com/image/301243052/?match=1&terms=Operation%20Eichmann The Miami News, 23 March 1961, p. 19.
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