It is the year 1936 and the Spanish Civil War is raging. When the German commander of an international brigade is badly wounded he gives his five comrades a message which he divides up and secretes into in five cartridges. All five shells must reach the battalion in order for the message to be relayed. But Frenchman Pierre can’t bear the heat of the Sierra. When he leaves their hide-out to drink from a well he is hit by an enemy bullet.
Cinematography
Searing Sierra landscapes that practically dehydrate you.
Acting
Ensemble chemistry between five nationalities, zero stereotypes.
Direction
Beyer's ruthless economy—no wasted frame in 90 minutes.
Director
Frank Beyer
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Made in East Germany, this was one of the first DEFA films to directly engage the Spanish Civil War—a rare GDR-approved tribute to international brigade solidarity.
Armin Mueller-Stahl's early role as Pierre; he'd later become the only East German actor to genuinely break through to Hollywood stardom.
XG
