The Last Execution (2021) Plot Summary Explained

Release, runtime and language

2021 · 115 mins · German

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Directed by

Franziska Stünkel

Starring

Lars Eidinger, Victoria Trauttmansdorff, Devid Striesow, Paula Kalenberg, Peter Benedict, Dirk Böhling

Based on a true story, this film explores the covert death penalty system in East Germany. Ambitious scientist Franz Walter eagerly accepts a professorship and pledges loyalty, joining the GDR’s foreign intelligence service. Alongside his colleague Dirk, he undertakes assignments in West Germany, quickly resorting to blackmail to extract information. His superiors escalate their tactics, targeting refugees and their families through psychological manipulation, forged documents, and surveillance. Overwhelmed by the escalating actions, Franz feels increasingly isolated and ultimately attempts to steal classified documents, setting off a series of events leading to his arrest and execution.