Farewell 2010

In the spirit of The Lives Of Others, yet only loosely inspired by an astonishing true tale, FAREWELL unfolds as a riveting espionage drama that unveils pivotal events that transformed history. Set in 1981, the story centers around Colonel Grigoriev, portrayed by Kusturica, a KGB officer who becomes disillusioned with the Communist ideals he once upheld. Determined to instigate change, he discreetly reaches out to Pierre, a French engineer in Moscow, played by Canet.

Grigoriev entrusts Pierre with vital documents primarily detailing crucial information about the United States and France. These documents expose one of the most significant Soviet Cold War espionage campaigns ever recorded. Over a two-year span, the intelligence gathered by this covert source, codenamed “Farewell” by the French Secret Service, was so critical that it was personally scrutinized by French President François Mitterrand and US President Ronald Reagan.

The details that Farewell leaked were instrumental in setting into motion events that would ultimately lead to the decline of the Soviet Union before the decade’s end. In his unique way, Farewell contributed to altering the course of world history. This dramatized account diverges from certain historical facts, omitting darker aspects of Grigoriev’s life, such as his violent encounters. Instead, the film focuses on his unconventional approach to espionage, one that shies away from the typical KGB practices and lacks any financial motives. Grigoriev is resolute in his mission, driven by the hope of a new dawn for his compatriots in Russia, but most importantly for his son.

In this way, FAREWELL intricately portrays a tale of bravery and sacrifice against the backdrop of a pivotal era, emphasizing the profound impact of individual actions on the tapestry of history.