The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas

I was moved to tears by the film, and although the movie was over half an hour ago, my heart is still breaking. My boys came in at different times and asked what was wrong. I told them. I also told them that it was essential that they watched the film, but that was probably the wrong thing to say (children usually want to do the opposite of what their parents wants them to. They also saw my reaction, so they know it will be harrowing). I will let them come to the film naturally.

I agree that David Thewlis was excellent, but I thought that both boys were excellent in their own ways as well. Bruno was very naive, but then he was eight, so there was no reason that he shouldn't be. His mother didn't even know exactly what was going on in the camps, and when she found out, over the rest of the movie, she disintegrated before our eyes.

Schmol was deadened by what he saw in the camps, and he was physically weak from lack of food. He was also eight, and could not possibly comprehend all that was happening in his world.

I found it a very difficult and worthwhile film to watch. I do not feel the need to revisit it, the same as I have only ever watched Schindler's List and the Departed once (different types of films that provoked really strong emotional responses in me). I think that repeated viewings dull the initial, gut reaction.

See it when you get the chance, but have the tissues ready.