The High Command

The movie The High Command from 1937 is a gripping World War I drama that centers around a military plot among the German high command. The film stars esteemed actor Lionel Atwill as General von Arnheim, a high-ranking commander of the German army who falls victim to a complex conspiracy crafted by his own subordinates.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of the First World War, with the German army fighting a brutal war on multiple fronts. At the center of the story is General von Arnheim, a brilliant strategist and a respected leader who commands the loyalty of his troops. However, the general's fortunes take a sudden turn for the worse when a group of his subordinates conspire to discredit him and undermine his authority.

The plot against von Arnheim is masterminded by Colonel Zimmerman, played with cold-blooded efficiency by Steven Geray. Together with a group of other officers, Zimmerman sets out to plant false information and spread rumors about von Arnheim, casting doubt on his loyalty to the German cause. In doing so, the conspirators hope to advance their own careers by paving the way for their own promotion within the military hierarchy.

At the same time, von Arnheim's personal life is thrown into disarray when he falls in love with a beautiful spy named Marja, played by Lucie Mannheim. Marja is a woman torn between her loyalty to her country and her love for von Arnheim. The two engage in a forbidden affair that adds a layer of tension and complexity to the already fraught political drama.

As the plot against von Arnheim unfolds, the general finds himself increasingly isolated and mistrusted by his own men. His once-loyal lieutenant, Captain von Reiger, played by Anthony Bushell, begins to have doubts about his commander's loyalty and is drawn into the conspiracy. With enemies all around him, von Arnheim must fight to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the conspiracy before it's too late.

Overall, The High Command is a taut and tightly woven drama that explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and political intrigue. At the center of the film is the towering performance of Lionel Atwill, who brings a gravitas and complexity to the role of the beleaguered general. He is supported by a strong ensemble cast, including Lucie Mannheim and Steven Geray, who add depth and nuance to their respective roles. With its gripping narrative and superb performances, The High Command is a must-see for fans of classic war dramas.