A Choice of Evils 1977
Set against the grim backdrop of WWII, *A Choice of Evils* (1977) follows Cardinal Volponi as he navigates a treacherous moral maze to save his estranged friend, a priest who has embraced militant communism, from execution.
Director: Jane Howell
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Choice of Evils (1977) about?
This gripping wartime drama centers on Cardinal Volponi's desperate attempt to prevent the execution of his communist-turned-priest friend, who is among 334 hostages marked for death by the Nazis. As he clashes with the Vatican, the Nazis, and his own moral code, the film questions whether any choice in war can be truly right.
Who directed A Choice of Evils?
Jane Howell helmets this intense drama, bringing a steady hand to a story driven by moral tension rather than battlefield chaos.
Who stars in A Choice of Evils?
The film features David Burke as Cardinal Volponi, Tom Bell as the embattled priest, and Alan Downer, William Hoyland, and Richard Leech in supporting roles.
Is A Choice of Evils (1977) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this 75-minute drama offers a gripping exploration of moral conflict and wartime survival. Its strong performances, tight script, and atmospheric direction make it a hidden gem for fans of historical dramas who crave depth over spectacle.
How long is A Choice of Evils?
The runtime for *A Choice of Evils* is 75 minutes.
About A Choice of Evils (1977) — A WWII moral dilemma with stellar lead performances
Set against the grim backdrop of WWII, *A Choice of Evils* (1977) follows Cardinal Volponi as he navigates a treacherous moral maze to save his estranged friend, a priest who has embraced militant communism, from execution. Director Jane Howell crafts a tense, dialogue-driven drama that pits personal loyalty against institutional forces—whether it's the unyielding Vatican bureaucracy, the ruthless Nazi regime, or the radical fervor of his friend's beliefs. With only 75 minutes to make an impossible decision, the film explores the weight of impossible choices, the cost of integrity, and the blurred lines between faith and ideology. Shot in stark, atmospheric tones, this TV movie delivers a quiet yet powerful meditation on compromise and conviction.
Starring David Burke as the determined cardinal and Tom Bell as the conflicted priest, the ensemble cast brings emotional depth to a story where every character is trapped by their own convictions. Howell's direction keeps the tension taut, making *A Choice of Evils* a compelling watch for fans of wartime dramas that prioritize moral complexity over action.