Operation Caviar

Thomas Lieven works as a quiet bank accountant who suddenly finds himself pulled into a dangerous web of espionage. Pressured by shadowy powers, he takes on the role of a triple agent serving Britain, France and the Nazis, all without choosing sides openly. As Lieven moves through a world of clandestine meetings, coded messages, and looming threats, he must keep his true loyalties secret while navigating shifting alliances. The story builds tension by choreographing mistaken identities, near misses, and the constant possibility that a misstep could expose him to enemies from every direction. The result is a brisk, globe roaming adventure that blends peril, humor, and intrigue around one man caught in the middle of wartime espionage and relentless suspense.

Released in 1961, Operation Caviar was directed by Géza von Radványi, Helmut Käutner and Georg Marischka. It draws on material from Johannes Mario Simmel with contributions from Henri Jeanson and Jean Ferry, crafting a European spy thriller with a sly sense of humor.

Box office data for Operation Caviar is not widely documented, reflecting its status as a relatively modest European release rather than a major international hit. It varied by region and never achieved significant global box office status in history overall from contemporary sources at the time.

Cultural impact for this title is limited, though it attracts a niche audience of fans of mid century European thrillers. The collaboration of three directors and the mix of adventure and comedy offer a window into the era's experimentation.

Reception and themes are marked by a brisk pace and a tonal blend of danger and wit. Viewers are invited to observe how one man negotiates competing demands, revealing the ambiguities of loyalty during wartime, with performances that balance seriousness and dry humor. It also uses a light touch to soften grim subject matter.