A riveting World War II thriller, The Exception follows stoic German soldier Stefan Brandt. tasked with investigating exiled German Monarch Kaiser Wilhelm II, who is banished to a secluded Dutch estate as the Nazis begin their push into Holland. As Brandt begins to infiltrate the Kaiser’s life, looking to root out enemy spies, he finds himself unexpectedly drawn to a mysterious housemaid named Mieke. When Heinrich Himmler, head of the SS, comes for an unexpected visit, secrets are revealed, allegiances tested, and Brandt is forced to make the ultimate choice between honoring his country and following his heart. Director David Leveaux sets his tale of thrilling espionage and romance against a sweeping wartime backdrop, bringing to vibrant life this story of one man caught between love and duty.

—Cara Cusumano

After the Premiere Screening: A conversation with director David Leveaux and actor Christopher Plummer.