Julia (1977)

As the tumultuous 1930s unfold, American playwright Lillian Hellman embarks on a harrowing journey of friendship, courage, and defiance in the sweeping drama, "Julia". The film paints the portrait of Hellman's childhood friend, Julia, a wealthy heiress turned tenacious medical student living in Vienna, seeking knowledge from the likes of Sigmund Freud. Amid the growing menace of Nazi power in Germany and Austria, their interactions become increasingly scarce, further strained when Julia suffers at the hands of the Nazis for aiding her peers. The narrative seamlessly intertwines Lillian's blossoming writing career under the tutelage of her older lover and mentor, novelist Dashiell Hammett, with Julia's mounting resolve to challenge the politically corrupt. As Lillian scales the ladder of literary success, Julia's plight deepens, drawing her deeper into the dangerous realm of activism. When Lillian is invited to a conference in Russia, she plans a detour to Vienna, hoping to reconnect with Julia. However, their reunion takes an unexpected turn. A friend of Julia's entrusts Lillian with a clandestine mission: to smuggle $50,000 into Nazi Germany to aid the resistance. Despite the immense risk, including the inherent danger of being Jewish in Nazi-occupied territory, Lillian agrees, stepping into the shadowy world of subterfuge. The drama heightens as Lillian navigates a labyrinth of trust and deception, where a single mistake could lead to her and Julia's doom. Along this dangerous path, Lillian discovers an even more personal request from Julia, one that truly tests the depth of their friendship and Lillian's own courage. "Julia" is a riveting exploration of the bonds of friendship set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war. The film masterfully intertwines personal trials, political resistance, and the power of the human spirit, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Julia is a drama movie featuring Jane Fonda.

Julia is currently streaming on TCM.