The Exception (2017)
Kernel Score: 74% · 461 ratings · Rated R
Genres: War, Drama, Romance
Released: 2017-06-02
Runtime: 107 minutes
Where to watch The Exception
- Stream: Prime Video
- Free with ads: Kanopy, Hoopla, The Roku Channel, Fandango at Home, Plex
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
Nothing is as it seems in this riveting World War 2 thriller as a wary soldier goes to investigate a mysterious German monarch at his secluded mansion, leading him into a web of deceit and a dangerous love affair with a local Jewish woman.
The Exception parents' guide: ages 15+
Parents need to know that The Exception is an R-rated WWII romance-thriller involving Nazis, spies, resistance, and a dangerous love affair.
- Violence & scariness: Moderate — Set amid WWII espionage and resistance activity, involving danger from Nazi forces.
- Sex, romance & nudity: Moderate — Rated R with a central romantic and sexual affair between a soldier and a Jewish woman under dangerous circumstances.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like The Exception
If you liked The Exception, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- The Great War (1959) — 90%
- Casablanca (1943) — 90%
- Resistance (2020) — 76%
- The Pianist (2002) — 93%
- Rome, Open City (1945) — 88%
- The Last of the Mohicans (1992) — 83%
- Joyeux Noel (2005) — 83%
- The Book Thief (2013) — 85%
Director
David Leveaux
Cast
- Lily James as Mieke de Jong
- Jai Courtney as Capt Stefan Brandt
- Eddie Marsan as Heinrich Himmler
- Christopher Plummer as Kaiser Wilhelm II
- Janet McTeer as Princess Hermine 'Hermo' Reuss of Greiz
- Daisy Boulton as Secretary
- Ben Daniels as Col Sigurd von Ilsemann
- Stéphane Auberghen as Frau Linnenkamp
- Aubeline Barbieux as Beatrix
- Loïs van Wijk as Little Girl
The Exception FAQ
Is The Exception good?
The Exception has a 74% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 461 audience ratings.
Where can I watch The Exception?
In the US you can stream The Exception on Prime Video, watch it free with ads on Kanopy, Hoopla, The Roku Channel, Fandango at Home and Plex and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is The Exception OK for kids?
The Exception is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that The Exception is an R-rated WWII romance-thriller involving Nazis, spies, resistance, and a dangerous love affair.
What movies are like The Exception?
If you liked The Exception, try The Great War, Casablanca, Resistance and The Pianist.