The four legendary safes in the movie Army of Thieves are the Rheingold, the Valkyrie, the Siegfried, and the Götterdämmerung. These intricately designed creations were crafted by the master locksmith Hans Wagner, each inspired by a part of Richard Wagner's operatic Ring Cycle and progressively more complex than the last.
The Legendary Safes
In Army of Thieves, the protagonist Ludwig Dieter, a gifted safe-cracker, embarks on a series of heists targeting these mythical safes. They are renowned not just for their security, but for their artistic and mechanical genius. Each safe represents a unique challenge, pushing Dieter's skills to their absolute limit.
Here is a breakdown of the four safes:
| Safe Name | Inspiration | Difficulty Level (in-universe) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rheingold | Das Rheingold | Entry-level/First | The initial challenge, serving as a gateway to the more complex safes. |
| Valkyrie | Die Walküre | Moderate | A more intricate design, requiring advanced puzzling and precision. |
| Siegfried | Siegfried | Advanced | Significantly harder, known for its elaborate mechanisms and deceptive traps. |
| Götterdämmerung | Götterdämmerung | Ultimate/Near Impossible | The culmination of Wagner's genius, considered the most secure and legendary safe ever built. |
Significance in the Film
These safes are not merely containers for valuables; they are central to Ludwig Dieter's character development and his journey into the world of professional safecracking. Each successful breach of a Wagner safe elevates his reputation and hones his skills, ultimately setting the stage for his future endeavors. The quest to crack the Götterdämmerung forms the thrilling climax of the film, highlighting the allure and danger associated with these incredible mechanical puzzles.
