An amazing story based on the life of a Soviet espionage agent

The Aquarium (Akwarium) is a Polish movie the communist censors would probably not have allowed to be made. It was produced in 1996, just a few years after the collapse of Communism in Poland. The Aquarium brings us into the secret world of Soviet espionage. It is based on a true story of Victor Suvorov, who worked for GRU, a secret organization similar to the KGB.

The story shows us the transformation of Victor from a reckless tank commander to a calculating spy. The movie shows us how Victor is selected to join this ultra secret organization. We get to see a glimpse of the training and world of tricks they must endue where they are never sure if they are on a real mission or are just being tested. Victor is warned during his inanition into GRU that nothing ever works out with the Aquarium and that whoever joins it is in for life and the only way to leave it is dead.

One aspect that makes this film fascinating is that is more than entertainment and provides so much education. The movie touches upon a topic that is not too well know. The Aquarium is the name of the headquarters of GRU (an organization that is not nearly as well known as the KGB). The interesting story is also pared with great acting. The mentor of Victor is played by Janusz Gajos who, as usual, performs superbly. There is great drama and suspense in this spy thriller.

The Aquarium is probably not for everyone as it is a serious movie. Those that enjoy drama/thrillers are most likely to enjoy it. Put aside your ideas about spies and get ready for an amazing story based on life. The faint of heart should be warmed, there will be more than a few shocking parts along the way in this thriller.

[Monday, March 17, 2008]

Russian secret intelligence group

I have stumbled across this movie in my library. It is a true story about the secret Russian intelligence group called GRU. This was elite espionage group in competition for the information gathering business with KGB. Its members are young middle class Russian men, indoctrinated in believing that USSR is superior to other countries and parts of the world. In their patriotic fervor to serve their country, these young men find themselves in western Europe recruiting western engineers, scientists and small business owners to sell them information about the latest technology developed by the military and private business. This is a true story of the young Russian spy who over time realises that he is dispensable to GRU and in order to save his life, he turns himself over to the British. Sentenced to death in absence by USSR courts, this spy is hidden in the west where he is protected by the British secret police and writes books while in undisclosed exile. If you are fan of the Polish film, you will recognize some of the better known Polish actors.

[Monday, March 10, 2008]