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Michael Krummenacher’s World War II drama “The Traitor” (“Landesverräter”) tells the true story of a young man in Switzerland who, seeking to escape the repression of militarization during World War II, falls into the hands of a manipulative German spy.

The film, which world premieres at the Zurich Film Festival, follows Ernst Schrämli (played by newcomer Dimitri Krebs), a poor but talented young singer and non-conformist in St. Gallen who regularly clashes with authority. Despising having to serve in the military for neutral Switzerland during the war, he dreams of becoming a famous crooner in Berlin.

When a charismatic Nazi spy (Fabian Hinrichs) takes a liking to him, the vulnerable Ernst not only finds the fatherly security he’s been missing, but also an opportunity he never imagined. For quick money and the prospect of a German visa, Ernst begins to supply his new acquaintance with military information.

The...

The Zurich Film Festival has revealed the first titles in their Gala section, which includes several films that will bring star power to the red carpet and directors with award-winning credentials.

Among the first 11 titles to be announced are “Conclave,” by the director of Oscar winner “All Quiet on the Western Front,” Edward Berger, with Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow heading the cast.

Also selected is Tim Fehlbaum’s “September 5,” starring Peter Sarsgaard, and Gia Coppola’s “The Last Showgirl,” which is toplined by Pamela Anderson and Jamie Lee Curtis.

Steve McQueen, an Oscar winner with “12 Years a Slave,” delivers “Blitz,” starring Saoirse Ronan and rock star Paul Weller, and Nick Hamm presents “William Tell,” starring Claes Bang and Ben Kingsley.

Sean Baker’s “Anora,” the winner of the Palme d’Or at Cannes, also joins the selection, as does Jesse Eisenberg’s “A Real Pain,” featuring...