EXCLUSIVE: Jai Courtney and Lily James Face Nazis and Forbidden Love in Explosive 'The Exception' Clip

By
ETONLINE

Forbidden love during World War II is a well-worn yarn in Hollywood, but The Exception factors in a new obstacle: The last king of the German Empire, banished to live in exile post-WWI.

The historical drama centers on a Jewish handmaid (Cinderella and Downton Abbey actress Lily James) and an SS officer (Suicide Squad star Jai Courtney) who fall for each other while working in the home of Kaiser Wilhelm II (Oscar winner Christopher Plummer). In this clip, debuting on ET, the lovers must confront their secrets and the Gestapo after disaster strikes, culminating in a deadly standoff.


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A24 Films

Based on the novel The Kaiser's Last Kiss by Alan Judd, The Exception is said to be equal parts "espionage and romance." First-time feature director David Leveaux, Tony-nominated for his theater work directing the renowned Royal Shakespeare Company, helmed the film, which premiered during last year's Toronto International Film Festival.

Watch the full trailer below:

And here is the movie's official synopsis:


"'The Exception' follows German soldier Stefan Brandt (Courtney) as he goes on a mission to investigate exiled German Monarch Kaiser Wilhelm II (Plummer). The Kaiser lives in a secluded mansion in The Netherlands, and as Germany is taking over Holland, the country’s authorities are concerned that Dutch spies may be watching the Kaiser. As Brandt begins to infiltrate the Kaiser’s life in search of clues, he finds himself drawn into an unexpected and passionate romance with Mieke (James), one of the Kaiser’s maids whom Brandt soon discovers is secretly Jewish.


When Heinrich Himmler (Eddie Marsan), Head of the SS, decides to come for an unexpected visit with a large platoon of Nazis in tow, the stage is set for a breathtaking showdown, as secrets are revealed, allegiances are tested, and Brandt is forced to make the ultimate choice between honoring his country and following his heart."


The Exception 
is exclusively available on DirecTV Cinema now and arrives in theaters on June 2.