The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a World War II film based on the novel of the same name. It focuses primarily on Germany and the holocaust. The story begins when Bruno, the 8-year-old main character, and his family must move to the countryside as a result of his Nazi father's promotion. I was struck by the pace of the film; it moves very slowly, building a dramatic tension from the start to the tragic climax. Knowing that it was not a happy story, I found myself wondering throughout the film what exactly would go wrong for Asa and his jewish friend Shmuel.

I thought the highlight of the story, which may be more credited to the book than the film, was the unbelievable complexity of each of the characters. The story is masterful at making you feel both sides of every character. Even though you just want Bruno to be happy throughout the film, there are times when you are extremely angry at him, like when he doesn't accept responsibility for Shmuel eating their food in the house.

Even the unlikable characters, such as the father, Ralf, and Lieutenant Kotler have moments that make you feel for them. Even though Ralf could be held accountable for the death of his son, Bruno, his crippling grief when he learns what has happened is extremely difficult to watch. Additionally, Lieutenant Kotler is initially presented as a heartless, scary, and mean character, but as the film progresses you see a much more human side to him.

Lastly, the score in the film was absolutely haunting. I didn't notice it as a point of particular emphasis until the climax of the film. Not that the climax needs music to be powerful, but the music absolutely amplified the tension and the horror of the situation. After Bruno's death, when all is silent, is one of the most chilling moments in film I can remember seeing.