Released - February, 1952 

Directed By - Joseph L. Mankiewicz

Starring – James Mason (Ulysses Diello), Danielle Darrieux (Countess Anna Staviska), Michael Rennie (Colin Travers), Walter Hampden (Sir Frederic Taylor).

Description - This is the true story of one of World War II’s most famous spies, Elyesa Bazna. The films character, Ulysses Diello, is based on Bazna.

While employed as a valet to the British ambassador to Turkey during World War II, Ulysses Diello is working for the Nazi’s. Under the code name ‘Cicero, ‘ Diello would take photographs of his British employers many secret documents and turn them over, with the help of Countess Staviska, to a former German chancellor.

It is the intention of Diello to make enough money by providing these documents to the Nazi’s that he may retire to South America and marry the Countess. His seemingly all to easy ability to photograph and deliver these documents has made the Germans suspicious. They believe he may, in fact, be a double agent.

NOTABLE: This film was nominated for two Academy Awards; Best Director (Joseph L. Mankiewicz), and Best Screenplay.

In his book, “I Was Cicero,” Elyesa Bazna noted his accomplice’s as his niece and a chambermaid.

Personal Note: Though some parts may seem a little far-fetched, the truth can sometimes be harder to believe than fiction. A very good, well-written, intelligent, spy thriller with a good deal of genuine suspense. James Mason is calm, cool, and collected as the Albanian born spy.

Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s 5 Fingers (Five Fingers) ~ Original Release [Import, All-regions] (Dvd)

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