Others

The Lives of Others (Ger: Das Leben der Anderen) (2006)
Writer & Director: Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck
German with English Subtitles

This film is excellent.  Really excellent.  One of the best foreign films I have ever seen.  It won the Oscar in 2006 for best foreign film, beating Pan's Labyrinth which in this case I think is a good measure.
The story is set in 80's East Germany, following the parrallel lives of two protagonists.  The first is a well-renowned playwrite and his girlfriend, struggling to express their artistry while under the constant scrutiny of the government.  Their parrallel is the man commissioned with the job of eaves dropping on their entire life for several months.

The characterisations are accurate and sympathetic.  You really begin to care about their stories and the acting, it goes without saying is pitch-perfect.
The direction is excellent.  The feeling of oppression and tension is expertly realised on screen - it is not overplayed or exaggerated but brooding and malicious.  This is aided by both a minimal yet moving score and the delicacy with which the main characters handle their situations.
There is a great sense of humanity in this film also.  It is not merely a bleak look at oppression and the futility of rebellion.  It gives hope and empathy, while also stirring a horror at the things man is capable of.
Rent this out now.  Watch it and enjoy it.

5/5.