The running time breezes along as the two, unmatched in their acting chops try to naturally persuade one another. Raoul wants Cholitz to ignore his orders from Hitler himself to obliterate Paris, he has timed explosives across every major monument and building. It is a desperate last bid attempt to keep the Americans at bay, and the desperation of the plan fills the fetid air.
Stubbornness, allegiance and perhaps something else keeps Cholitz from taking Raoul's advice however, and from this point on the conversations have taken on an extra thrilling significance. There are snippets of other characters on the move outside of a war-torn Paris and occasional stock footage from this time in the war as well. Cholitz is interrupted many times, both from within his quarters; a now defunct hotel, and through various phone calls. Once Raoul is in his chamber he does not leave, convincing himself that he will be able to save Paris.
The stakes are high and start on a sleepless night; Cholitz is first introduced at four in the morning and the film moves through this perilous time until just about the afternoon. The pacing is extraordinary, neither dragging nor rushing to an exciting conclusion. The utmost complexity of politics and war relations is distilled down to simple verbal bouts, but these never lose their potency.
There are a few scenarios, even in this limited chamber format that seek to disrupt both Cholitz and Raoul. These situations arise naturally and make perfect sense given the context; they never feel out of place or shoehorned in. Outside of the room, Nazi soldiers and the French resistance mill about. There is of course a lot happening, shots are being fired, there is more order than chaos and the Americans themselves are beginning to invade. While this is not explicitly shown or highlighted, the feeling from the set design and production value certainly implies it.
Although a different time period altogether, the film certainly recalls the urgency and political complexity of Farewell My Queen. Considering the same location and the night to day time period, as well as the estranged relationship. Both films also contribute towards highlighting a France that could well have been lost in the wars. In Diplomacy's case it is an impending doom that is being fought for - word for word as the sun rises.
Regardless of the political implications both actors give it their all in this condensed and nearly perfect chamber drama. There is not a dry moment, Diplomacy is a seriously excellent film.
This film is playing as part of the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival in Australia from the 3rd March to the 21st April Australia-wide. Please see the website for more information.