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At least this film tries to keep the audience guessing...maybe. Deeply emotionally in war scenes. This film is tricky because the lead actor (a spy) is actually trying to keep a country out of WW II. This comes through only after the fact of the action...kind of unique to say the least. The back story romance is kind of the usual in a war movie, so nothing unique there. Overall the story was interesting, even if unorthodox in the telling. This movie fills the void of history how the Ottoman empire remained neutral during WWII. Apparently history did not repeat itself because of one man's efforts to keep Turkey neutral, or so the story goes.

As Winston Churchill said, "we have met the enemy and he is us". The "us" would apply to this offbeat war movie. The enemy within out weighs the heroism without, but in war does that really apply... of course not. Deep message but long movie. Van Heflin (my opinion) gives the best performance as a ragtag Sergeant. He's got it correct. Just let us make our own choice about receiving a medal! The army has its own way of doing things really is the back story and comes out loud and clear. Much sweat throughout movie, and the burn I got from watching lasted a few days. So put the shades on for this very parched movie.

The similarity of roles played by Liam Neeson in "Schindler's List" and Natasha Richardson in "Haven" is apparent (one hero, the other heroine) saving Jewish lives. "Haven" draws the viewer in by focusing on America's neglect for rescuing Jewish families from Hitler during WW2. This movie tells an equally powerful story of the lives of Jewish families that needed restoration during/after the holocaust. This movie reminds us what the word holocaust actually means, both for those lives taken and for those lives left behind. Well told story, with great supporting acting from Hal Holbrook, Anne Bancroft, etc.