An interesting experiment in a fictional motion picture in that it incorporates large bits of historical reality, in this case the ravaged city of Berlin following the fall of the Nazi regime. Very nearly a documentary in that aspect. As well, except for the lead performances (Douglas and Clift are excellent) everyone onscreen are not actors, but the real people doing their real lives. I was slow to embrace this, but now I don't think I'll ever forget it.

The romantic plot is weak, but this semi-documentary is an important piece of filmography since history is preserved. In simple terms, it shows Americans processing WWII experiences and emotions toward the German peoples. What is remarkable about this film is that all shots were on location within all sectors of war-ravaged Berlin and the military personnel are genuine.