The 2008 film Valkyrie, directed by Bryan Singer, is a historical thriller that recounts the July 20 Plot, a real-life attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler during World War II. The movie features an ensemble cast, with Tom Cruise playing the lead role of Claus von Stauffenberg, a German army officer who masterminds the plot. One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the intense moment at the end, where Tom Cruise’s character utters a phrase that has become a subject of interest among movie enthusiasts. In this article, we will delve into the details of what Tom Cruise yelled at the end of Valkyrie and explore the historical context and significance of the film.
Introduction to Valkyrie and Its Historical Context
Valkyrie is a film that brings to life a pivotal moment in history, shedding light on the courage and conviction of a group of individuals who dared to challenge the Nazi regime. The movie is based on the true story of the July 20 Plot, a conspiracy led by Claus von Stauffenberg, who was determined to overthrow Hitler and bring an end to the war. The plot was a complex and daring operation that involved a group of high-ranking officials and military officers who shared Stauffenberg’s vision of a Germany free from Nazi rule.
The Significance of the July 20 Plot
The July 20 Plot was a significant event in history, marking one of the most notable attempts to assassinate Hitler. The plot was the culmination of months of planning and involved a group of individuals from various backgrounds and professions. The conspirators were motivated by a desire to save Germany from the devastating consequences of the war and to restore democracy and freedom to the country. Although the plot ultimately failed, it remains an important symbol of resistance against tyranny and oppression.
Key Players in the July 20 Plot
The July 20 Plot involved a number of key players, each with their own unique role and contribution to the conspiracy. Claus von Stauffenberg, played by Tom Cruise in the film, was the mastermind behind the plot. He was a charismatic and determined individual who was driven by a strong sense of duty and conviction. Other key players included Henning von Tresckow, Friedrich Olbricht, and Ludwig Beck, who all played important roles in the planning and execution of the plot.
The Final Scene: Unpacking the Intensity
The final scene of Valkyrie is an intense and emotional moment that has become etched in the memories of moviegoers. As the plot unfolds and the conspirators face the consequences of their actions, Tom Cruise’s character, Claus von Stauffenberg, finds himself in a desperate and hopeless situation. In a last-ditch effort to rally his fellow conspirators and inspire them to continue the fight, Stauffenberg utters a phrase that has become a subject of interest among fans of the film. So, what did Tom Cruise yell at the end of Valkyrie?
The phrase, “Long live sacred Germany!” is a poignant and powerful expression of Stauffenberg’s unwavering commitment to his country and his vision for a better future. The phrase is a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance and defiance that defined the July 20 Plot and its participants. As the scene unfolds, the intensity of the moment is palpable, and Tom Cruise’s performance brings to life the emotion and desperation of the character.
Historical Accuracy and Creative Liberties
While the film Valkyrie is based on real events, it is worth noting that some creative liberties were taken to enhance the storytelling and drama. The final scene, including the phrase uttered by Tom Cruise’s character, is a fictionalized representation of the events that unfolded. However, the spirit and essence of the moment are rooted in historical fact, and the film does an excellent job of capturing the intensity and emotion of the July 20 Plot.
Tom Cruise’s Performance and Preparation
Tom Cruise’s performance in Valkyrie was widely praised by critics and audiences alike. To prepare for the role, Cruise underwent extensive research and training, including learning to speak German and studying the history of the July 20 Plot. His commitment to the role and his dedication to accuracy and authenticity are evident in his performance, which brings to life the complexity and nuance of Claus von Stauffenberg’s character.
Conclusion and Legacy of Valkyrie
The film Valkyrie is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that sheds light on a pivotal moment in history. The final scene, including the phrase yelled by Tom Cruise’s character, is an intense and emotional moment that has become an iconic part of the film. As we reflect on the significance of the July 20 Plot and the courage of its participants, we are reminded of the enduring power of resistance and defiance in the face of tyranny and oppression. Valkyrie is a testament to the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
In terms of the film’s legacy, Valkyrie has been widely praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail. The film has also been recognized for its thought-provoking themes and its ability to spark important conversations about history, politics, and social justice. As a work of historical fiction, Valkyrie serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of learning from the past and honoring the memories of those who have come before us.
The following table provides a brief overview of the key events and figures involved in the July 20 Plot:
Event | Date | Key Figures |
---|---|---|
Attempted assassination of Hitler | July 20, 1944 | Claus von Stauffenberg, Henning von Tresckow |
Failure of the plot and subsequent crackdown | July 21-23, 1944 | Hitler, Himmler, Goebbels |
Ultimately, the phrase yelled by Tom Cruise at the end of Valkyrie serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of resistance and defiance that defined the July 20 Plot. As we continue to learn from history and honor the memories of those who have come before us, we are reminded of the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting against tyranny and oppression in all its forms.
What is the movie Valkyrie about?
The movie Valkyrie is a historical thriller film that tells the story of the July 20 Plot, a real-life attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler in 1944. The film is based on the true story of Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, a German army officer who was instrumental in the plot to overthrow Hitler and the Nazi regime. The movie follows von Stauffenberg’s journey as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the Nazi regime and decides to take action against Hitler.
The film features an all-star cast, including Tom Cruise as Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, Kenneth Branagh, and Tom Wilkinson. The movie was directed by Bryan Singer and released in 2008. Valkyrie received mixed reviews from critics, but it was praised for its historical accuracy and the performances of the cast. The film’s attention to detail and commitment to telling a true story made it a compelling watch for audiences interested in history and politics. The movie’s climax features an intense moment where Tom Cruise’s character yells, which has become a topic of interest among fans and historians alike.
What did Tom Cruise yell at the end of Valkyrie?
At the end of the movie Valkyrie, Tom Cruise’s character, Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, yells “Long live sacred Germany!” as he is executed by firing squad for his role in the failed assassination attempt. This moment is a pivotal point in the film, as it highlights the sacrifices made by von Stauffenberg and the other conspirators who attempted to overthrow Hitler. The yell is a testament to von Stauffenberg’s patriotism and his desire to see a better future for Germany, free from the tyranny of the Nazi regime.
The yell has become an iconic moment in the film, and it has been the subject of much discussion and analysis. Some have interpreted the yell as a symbol of von Stauffenberg’s defiance and courage in the face of death, while others have seen it as a expression of his loyalty to Germany and his desire to see the country redeemed from the Nazi regime. Regardless of interpretation, the yell is a powerful and emotional moment in the film, and it serves as a fitting conclusion to the story of von Stauffenberg and the July 20 Plot.
What was the historical context of the July 20 Plot?
The July 20 Plot was a real-life attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler and overthrow the Nazi regime in 1944. The plot was led by a group of German army officers, including Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, who were disillusioned with Hitler’s leadership and the direction of the war. The conspirators planned to use a bomb to kill Hitler and then seize control of the government, with the goal of negotiating a peace treaty with the Allies and ending the war. The plot ultimately failed, and Hitler survived the assassination attempt, but it remains an important moment in history as a testament to the bravery and conviction of those who opposed the Nazi regime.
The historical context of the July 20 Plot is complex and multifaceted, involving a range of factors and motivations. The conspirators were driven by a combination of patriotism, morality, and self-interest, and they saw the plot as a necessary step to save Germany from the devastating consequences of the war. The plot also highlights the divisions and tensions within the Nazi regime, as well as the growing opposition to Hitler’s leadership among the German people. The July 20 Plot is an important reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of standing up against tyranny and oppression, and it continues to be studied and remembered today as a powerful symbol of resistance and courage.
How accurate is the movie Valkyrie?
The movie Valkyrie is generally considered to be a historically accurate depiction of the July 20 Plot and the events surrounding it. The film’s attention to detail and commitment to telling a true story are evident in its portrayal of the conspirators, their motivations, and the events of the plot. The film’s director, Bryan Singer, worked closely with historians and experts to ensure that the film was as accurate as possible, and the result is a movie that is both entertaining and informative.
However, as with any historical drama, there are some inaccuracies and creative liberties taken in the film. Some of the characters and events are fictionalized or exaggerated for dramatic effect, and the film’s timeline is condensed and simplified for the sake of the story. Additionally, some historians have criticized the film for its portrayal of certain characters and events, arguing that they are not entirely accurate or fair. Despite these limitations, the movie Valkyrie is widely regarded as a compelling and thought-provoking depiction of a pivotal moment in history, and it has helped to raise awareness and interest in the July 20 Plot and its significance.
Who was Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg?
Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg was a German army officer who played a key role in the July 20 Plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler and overthrow the Nazi regime. He was a member of the German nobility and a career military officer who had served in the German army since the 1920s. Von Stauffenberg was a devout Catholic and a patriot who was deeply committed to his country and his people, but he was also increasingly disillusioned with the Nazi regime and its ideology. He saw the plot as a necessary step to save Germany from the devastating consequences of the war and to restore the country’s honor and integrity.
Von Stauffenberg’s role in the July 20 Plot was instrumental, as he was the one who planted the bomb that was intended to kill Hitler. He was also a key leader of the conspiracy, and he worked closely with other conspirators to plan and execute the plot. Despite his bravery and conviction, von Stauffenberg was ultimately unsuccessful in his attempt to kill Hitler, and he was executed by firing squad for his role in the plot. Today, von Stauffenberg is remembered as a hero and a symbol of resistance against tyranny and oppression, and his legacy continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
What was the significance of the July 20 Plot?
The July 20 Plot was a significant event in history because it represented a major challenge to the authority of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime. The plot was the most serious attempt to assassinate Hitler and overthrow the Nazi government, and it highlighted the growing opposition to Hitler’s leadership among the German people. The plot also marked a turning point in the war, as it came at a time when the Allies were gaining the upper hand and the Nazi regime was beginning to collapse. The failure of the plot ultimately sealed the fate of the Nazi regime, as it led to a crackdown on opposition and a further radicalization of Nazi policy.
The significance of the July 20 Plot extends beyond its immediate historical context, as it has become a powerful symbol of resistance and courage in the face of tyranny and oppression. The plot has inspired countless books, films, and other works of art, and it continues to be studied and remembered today as a testament to the human spirit and the power of individual action. The plot also serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and fighting for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds and danger. As such, the July 20 Plot remains an important and enduring part of history, and its legacy continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
How did Tom Cruise prepare for his role in Valkyrie?
Tom Cruise prepared for his role in Valkyrie by conducting extensive research on the life and times of Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg. He worked closely with historians and experts to learn more about von Stauffenberg’s background, motivations, and actions, and he spent hours studying the historical record and watching documentaries and films about the July 20 Plot. Cruise also underwent physical training to prepare for the role, as he needed to learn how to use a prosthetic hand and leg, which von Stauffenberg had lost in combat.
Cruise’s preparation for the role also involved immersing himself in the culture and language of Germany during World War II. He learned to speak German and studied the customs and traditions of the German nobility, which von Stauffenberg was a part of. Cruise also worked closely with the film’s director, Bryan Singer, to develop his character and to ensure that his portrayal of von Stauffenberg was accurate and nuanced. The result of Cruise’s preparation was a powerful and compelling performance that brought von Stauffenberg to life on the screen and helped to make the film a success. Cruise’s commitment to the role and his dedication to historical accuracy were widely praised by critics and historians, and his performance remains one of the highlights of the film.