A Movie Evaluation of 'The Boy in The Striped Pyjamas'

Movie evaluation essays often analyze the portrayal of historical events and characters, such as the Holocaust and its impact on individuals, as depicted in Mark Herman's 2008 film, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. In this film, directed by Mark Herman, viewers analyze it as a compelling portrayal of World War II events. Given that Herman’s film focuses on a historical event, he directs his scenes to provide viewers with insights into the Holocaust through the eyes of a child. The fictional plot revolves around a young boy named Bruno and his encounter with a Jewish boy named Shmuel, whom he meets at the fence of a concentration camp. Their friendship beautifully builds as the movie progresses. The evaluation of the fictional storyline, main characters, cinematography, and the influence of the film are important factors in what makes this film emotionally impactful to watch.

Portrayal of Historical Context

Throughout the film, Herman incorporates various World War II elements, including German soldiers, the Jews, and the infamous concentration camp, Auschwitz. The fictional story offers a unique perspective as viewers witness events through a child’s eyes. The hatred and violence against innocent Jews are subtly portrayed, maintaining the innocence of a child's perspective. As noted by Rainer, “the great conundrum of the Holocaust is that it was perpetrated by human beings, not monsters. Few movies have rendered this puzzle so powerfully” (Rainer, 2008). Each character provides a different perspective on the historical event. For instance, while Bruno’s innocence blinds him from understanding the situation, his father is a heartless commander overseeing the atrocities against the Jews. Despite the horrors of war, Herman provides a glimmer of hope and purity through the friendship between Bruno and Shmuel.

Character Development and Cinematic Techniques

An essential aspect of the film is the portrayal of characters and their significance. The child actor Asa Butterfield, who played Bruno, embodies a typical 8-year-old eager to explore. Herman effectively showcases Bruno’s curiosity as he wanders through the forest and open fields, leading to his discovery of Shmuel. This budding friendship becomes a focal point of the narrative, highlighting the innocence amidst the surrounding darkness. In contrast, David Thewlis, portraying Bruno’s father, offers an opposing perspective on the World War II events. His complex and rigid character is evident through his actions as a commander. In an interview, Thewlis mentioned that he read extensively to enhance his portrayal. “I want to really know what kind of minds we're dealing with here. And so I read—you know, I'd already read Primo Levy, and lots of things I'd already read because I've got a history with the Jewish people myself” (Thewlis, 2008).

Emotional Impact and Conclusion

The film’s emotional impact is heightened by its careful balance between innocence and brutality. The cinematography captures the stark contrast between the serene countryside and the grim reality of the concentration camp. Through Bruno and Shmuel’s friendship, the film invites viewers to reflect on the capacity for human kindness even in the darkest times. As the story unfolds, it prompts a deeper understanding of the Holocaust's complexities and the innocence lost amidst such tragedies. This nuanced depiction makes The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas a poignant film that resonates with audiences, urging them to remember the past while contemplating the enduring power of friendship and humanity.

References:

• Rainer, P. (2008). Review of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. The Christian Science Monitor.
• Thewlis, D. (2008). Interview on portraying complex characters. The Guardian.