A period piece that draws you in despite some questionable plot arcs and convenient gaps in judgment amongst characters. That aside, this is a tense pic that has its hands deep in the oil wells of reality, pumping away to generate tension, excitement, confrontation and some timely duets by the main architect of the Netherlands gestapo despite not being it's head. there are both sympathetic scenes and exaggerated action and rolled up in hard to believe plot where the obvious is overlooked.Mind you, I believe that was the point the director was attempting to make about the reality of the time. Flashes on our starlets breast and bush did nothing to add to either element, if only to add brashness to our character, but to the detriment of suspense of disbelief. Not that sex wasn't used by both sides to get what they wanted or needed, but it was pedaled more than bought and that's a bit hard to swallow. The acting is above par but definitely mixed all along, confusing this viewer and adding to the overall thought that the high cost film was spiraling and had to wrap up before these inconsistencies could grow further.

Honestly, I did not expected the movie be so good.Thought it is just another military and spy story.Looking at the ratings, thought to give a try and glad that I came across this movie.The never ending unfortunate story of Jews is very well narrated.All actors act carried out their role very well.Carice van Houten is one of the finest actor around.Sebastian Koch is elegant as always.Movie keeps you glued to the seat.One of the movie to watch

I had no idea this gem was hiding out there for 8 years. This is definitely one of the best movies I've ever seen. The casting was brilliant, the screenplay was a constant twist and turn, and Carice Van Houten is a superb actress. She uses her eyes better than just about any actress I can remember. In this film, she has a zest and spontaneity that are rare. Sebastian Koch is a great leading man.Besides the excellent acting throughout (even the children do a great job), the best part is that this film simply shouts "authentic;" the Dutch know their subject, having lived through the terror, but Hollywood directors don't seem to know what WWII was all about. The day before I saw "Black Book," I saw "Monuments Men," which was cardboard and seemed almost a caricature of the actual events. Hollywood has lost the bubble and Dutch filmmakers have found it. I'll be looking for more great films from the Netherlands.

I came across this film by chance and made a note to myself to watch it. I'm grateful for that decision because the 'Black Book' is a must-see. It connects with all your emotions; it really digs deep. Most important of all, it takes you on a journey of an exciting story which you do not have to relate to to understand. I have not yet credited the actors or Verhoeven and so I must applaud their efforts. The story is fantastic but it was the actors that really brought it to life and the strongest performance for me was from Carice van Houten. I have researched how long Verhoeven worked on this film for-over 15 years! It definitely showed and his film was gripping from the opening scene. I do like (not love) war films, but you do not have to like war films to enjoy this. This has a slightly different focus that I believe to be more to do with human values. I would recommend this film especially to anyone that loves action, drama and history: you'll be in for a treat.