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Sep 07, 2015
Most of the time, when a book receives a film adaptation, many fans become upset due to the film’s mediocrity compared to the book. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas bucks that trend. The film adaptation is generally put at the same level as the book; sometimes even higher. But what could be so great about the film? What places it at such a high level? The film takes place in Nazi Germany, and during a time period that many wish to forget. Bruno, the main character, is an 8 year old boy whose family moves from their home in Berlin in order for his father to be closer to his work. Bored, Bruno eventually stumbles into another Jewish boy his age named Shmuel. Bruno’s father finds out about their friendship and forbids Bruno to speak to Shmuel again. However, both Bruno and Shmuel are oblivious to the terror that’s going on around them, and decide to keep their friendship going in secret. The film makes sure to tug at the heartstrings of its viewers. A depressing quality of the film is the innocence that Bruno and Shmuel share. Both boys don’t fully understand why they cannot speak to one another, and Bruno doesn’t fully understand why Shmuel is treated much worse than he is. As time goes on, their friendship becomes more and more strained due to outside interference. However, the most depressing part of all is the ending of the film. Of course, nothing will be spoiled, but the film’s closing sequence is bound to sink hearts of its viewers. So what makes The Boy in the Striped Pyjama’s great? The film provides insight as to how horrible Nazism was, and how no one was spared from its wrath; not even children. What makes it even worse was how the man largely held responsible for the Holocaust, Adolf Hitler, believed he was indeed doing the right thing for his country. The Boy in the Striped Pyjama’s is a compelling film filled with real life references, heart-wrenching moments and an extremely sad ending. While the film is rather depressing, it is eye-opening to what many had gone through decades ago and serves as a grim reminder of what can happen when the wrong person is in power. A must watch for anybody who wants a movie that will stick with them long after the credits roll.