It did not hold my attention at all times but it was one of those films that did have some watchable bits scattered throughout aided by some good special effects.
A good example of compact film making – even when there was a lull in the action there was some purpose to it. The car chase scenes were impressive and looked authentic and so did Peggy Cummins.
The screenplay is dialogue heavy but much of it involves petty squabbling. Hepburn's voice grates on the nerves and is accompanied by a whining Stewart – they deserve each other.
It doesn't sell itself short for commercialism (it is laced with backhanders against white intrusion) although the photography is stunning. The film making must have been arduous but worth it as you come away with pearls of wisdom ringing in your ears.
A top notch documentary. Its strength is that it focuses only on a few days as well as concentrating on the experiences of the participants at the sharp end of proceedings. It should have important archival value for future historians.
The loose screenplay ensures it is never boring & predictable. The unalike characters add interest. Hans Christian Blech and my favourite Hanna Schygulla add weight to the casting. The icing on the cake is the photography & particularly of the Rhine.