a formal review.
(2008) What happens to the human spirit when justice is denied? Does it seek revenge? The Belski brothers answer boldly in “Defiance”. Ed Zwick’s direction of this 1940’s Holocaust film, set in Belarus, is as captivating as his work in “Glory”, “Legends of the Fall” and “Traffic”. Starring roles went to Daniel Craig – the latest James Bond lead, Liev Schreibner from “The Sum of All Fears”, and Jamie Bell, who gathers momentum from his recent “Jumper” role. Defiance, adapted from a book of the same name, documents a true but untold story. This Paramount Vantage picture will remind you why real life can be more exciting than fiction.
The reunion of four brothers comes with the startling realization that horrible crimes are being committed in their homeland. The Nazis were eradicating Jews from Russia so the Belski brothers find solace in the dense forests of their youth. Struggling to search for food and answers, Tuvia (Craig) and Zus Belski (Schreibner) become reluctant leaders to many others who need help. As alliances form and human weaknesses rear their head, their survival is challenged by ever-increasing threats.
Craig, Schreibner, and Bell are impressive in their portrayal act brilliantly as they expose their souls and show what courage is like at the core of a human being. Zwick and Clayton Frohman’s adaptation tell a truth so ugly but also accurate. Strong violence and some language cause this 2 hour and 17 minute movie to be R-rated. Though probably not appropriate for children, it may also be tough for others to handle. “Defiance” may have a heavy hand in changing your perspective on the Holocaust. Many movies about this time period often show many other people groups fighting for the Jews. It is also inspiring to see them fight so arduously for themselves.
image: Copyright by Paramount Pictures and other respective production studios and distributors.
(C) Copyright 2009
Loved this review, makes me want to run and rent it immediately.
Posted by: Regina Milton | 07/23/2009 at 01:37 PM