Must-see Holocaust films: Top 5 picks
A frame from the movie "Zone of Interest"
On January 27, Ukraine and the world commemorate the International Holocaust Remembrance Day. According to official data, there were approximately six million victims. The theme of the Jewish genocide has been explored in numerous scholarly works, films, and books. It is crucial to preserve the memory of the horrific crimes against humanity and all those who suffered or perished as a result. We have compiled a selection of the best Holocaust films of all time, which have become classics of world cinema.
Zone of Interest
The plot revolves around a husband and wife confidently moving towards their dream - creating a cozy family nest, a dream home with a green garden, a pool, and the laughter of children. Only a tall fence serves as a reminder that next to their paradise corner stands a concentration camp where the man works as a commandant.
By the way, this film is one of the favorites for this year's Oscar. It is nominated for five golden statuettes. The film will be released in Ukrainian cinemas on February 22.
Schindler's List
The film is considered a classic of world cinema and the most well-known Holocaust film.
It is based on Thomas Keneally's novel "Schindler's Ark" and tells the true story of Oskar Schindler. He was a member of the Nazi Party and during World War II became a successful businessman who saved the lives of over a thousand Jews by employing them in his factories.
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
The story once again focuses on the family of a concentration camp commandant, but this time, the narrative is told from the perspective of eight-year-old Bruno, the son of a German officer. While exploring the surroundings of his house, the boy stumbles upon the camp.
Beyond the fence, he sees a peer – Shmuel, a Jewish boy. After a simple introduction, a friendship develops between the children. However, Bruno learns from Shmuel that the reality inside the camp differs from what is depicted in promotional films.
Life Is Beautiful
A great optimist, Guido, finds himself in a concentration camp during World War II with his young son. Ensuring the safety of his son becomes his top priority.
He manages to convince his son that everything happening around them is just a game. The winner will receive a real tank, and to secure this victory, one must avoid attracting the attention of the guards and refrain from crying.
The Pianist
At the center of the plot is Władysław Szpilman, one of the best Polish pianists of the 1930s. He continues his musical pursuits until the Nazi occupation of his homeland. Władysław miraculously avoids deportation to a concentration camp.
Forced into hiding, he becomes a witness to numerous Nazi crimes. Even in the darkest times of war, fate and the musician's skill help Szpilman survive.
Also, see what the main characters of the movie "Titanic" look like now.
