At the end of World War 2 Colonel Lewis Morgan (Jason Clarke) is posted to Hamburg to help with the clean up operation and the rooting out of any remaining nazi sympathisers. Requisitioning the home of German architect Stefan Lubert (Alexander Scarsgard) he brings his wife Rachael (Keira Knightley) to live with him whilst he conducts his job.

The aftermath of the title refers to the two families losses during the war as much as the rebuilding effort in Hamburg. Lewis and Rachael lost their 11 year old son during the bombing of London, whilst Stefan and his daughter Freda (Flora Thiemann) lost their wife and mother during the bombing of Hamburg. Both families are damaged by their loss and this shared pain brings Rachael and Stefan together.

The Aftermath is the epitome of a glorious period drama. Beautifully shot, featuring fantastic costumes and makeup, strong performances and a stark soundtrack featuring classical pieces such as Clair de Lune. What it lacks in originality it makes up for in all of these other qualities. And Knightley’s performance alone makes the film worth watching. The heartbreak she conveys in a scene playing the piano with Freda is crushing. Following her turn in Colette she is an early contender for actress of the year.