Farewell

Farewell

Year: 2010

Runtime: 113 min

Language: French

Director: Christian Carion

Thriller

In 1981, disillusioned KGB Colonel Grigoriev sets out to upend the Communist regime, sharing classified US intel with a French engineer in Moscow through clandestine meetings and documents. This daring Cold War operation would become the most significant espionage coup of its time, as Grigoriev's betrayal sparks a global game of cat-and-mouse.

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Timeline – Farewell (2010)
Trace every key event in Farewell (2010) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

Colonel Grigoriev's Disillusionment

In 1981, Colonel Grigoriev, a KGB officer, grows increasingly disillusioned with the Communist ideals he has upheld for years. This internal conflict marks the beginning of his transformative journey towards becoming a whistleblower.

1981 Moscow
2

Contacting Pierre

After grappling with his ideals, Grigoriev discreetly reaches out to Pierre, a French engineer who works in Moscow. This initial contact is pivotal as it sets the stage for a significant intelligence exchange between the KGB and the French Secret Service.

Moscow
3

The Transfer of Documents

Grigoriev entrusts Pierre with crucial documents containing vital intelligence about the United States and France. These papers unveil the specifics of one of the most significant Soviet espionage campaigns during the Cold War, laying the groundwork for their cooperation.

4

Codenamed 'Farewell'

The intelligence provided by Grigoriev is given the codename 'Farewell' by the French Secret Service. This codename highlights the importance and secrecy of the operation, as well as its potential impact on global politics.

5

Scrutiny by World Leaders

The information leaked through Farewell is deemed so critical that it is personally scrutinized by French President François Mitterrand and US President Ronald Reagan. Their attention signifies the gravity of the intelligence and the potential repercussions it holds for the Cold War dynamics.

6

Impact on Soviet Union

The intelligence shared by Grigoriev is instrumental in catalyzing events that contribute to the decline of the Soviet Union. This chain of information plays a vital role in altering the course of history during a pivotal period in the 1980s.

7

Grigoriev's Motives

Driven by a hope for change in Russia and a better future for his son, Grigoriev's motives are rooted in personal sacrifice. His actions reflect a departure from traditional KGB practices, emphasizing his altruistic goals amidst a turbulent backdrop.

8

Espionage Techniques

Throughout the film, Grigoriev's unconventional approach to espionage is highlighted. He avoids the typical financial motives seen in many spy narratives, focusing instead on the moral imperative of his actions and the potential for a new dawn in his country.

9

Choosing Courage Over Apathy

Despite the risks, Grigoriev chooses to act rather than remain complicit in a failing system. This decision not only showcases his bravery but also underscores the impact that individual choices can have on larger historical contexts.

10

Legacy of Farewell

The contributions of 'Farewell' resonate beyond the immediate espionage narrative, symbolizing the profound impact of individual actions in shaping historical events. Grigoriev's legacy becomes one of bravery, hope, and the possibility of change in the face of oppression.

Last Updated: November 04, 2024 at 07:11

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