By Sara Noah
White Bird is a film adaptation of the graphic novel by R.J. Palacio, the best-selling author of Wonder. It tells the story of Sara, a Jewish girl who hides from the Nazis in a French farmhouse with the help of a compassionate boy named Julien. The film is directed by Marc Forster, who has previously helmed films such as The Kite Runner, Finding Neverland, and World War Z.
The film is a powerful and poignant depiction of the horrors of the Holocaust, as well as the resilience and courage of the human spirit. It also explores the themes of kindness, forgiveness, and family, as Sara learns to trust and love Julien, and as Julien’s grandmother shares her own past with her grandson. The film features a talented cast, including Helen Mirren, Gillian Anderson, Bryce Gheisar, and Ariella Glaser.
The Plot
The film begins in the present day, as Julian, a high school student who was previously a bully in Wonder, receives a visit from his grandmother, Sara. She decides to tell him the story of her life during World War II, when she was a teenager in France. She reveals that she was a Jewish girl who lived in a small town with her parents, who were both doctors. She was a bright and cheerful student, who loved to read and draw.
One day, the Nazis invaded her town and started to round up the Jews. Sara managed to escape with the help of Julien, a classmate who had a crush on her. Julien took her to his family’s farm, where his parents agreed to hide her in their barn. Sara had to cut her hair, change her name, and pretend to be a mute farmhand. She also had to avoid the suspicion of the local collaborators and the German soldiers who frequently visited the farm.
Sara and Julien developed a close bond, as they shared their dreams, fears, and secrets. They also faced many dangers and challenges, such as hunger, illness, betrayal, and violence. They also witnessed the atrocities committed by the Nazis, such as the massacre of a nearby village and the deportation of Sara’s parents. Despite the hardships, they also experienced moments of joy, beauty, and hope, such as celebrating Christmas, reading books, and seeing a white bird.
The film ends with a twist, as Sara reveals to Julian the fate of Julien and his family, and the reason why she never told him her story before. She also gives him a gift, a drawing of a white bird, which symbolises freedom, peace, and love.
The Review
White Bird is a film that will touch your heart and make you cry. It is a well-crafted and well-acted film, that captures the essence of the graphic novel and brings it to life on the screen. The film is visually stunning, with a rich and authentic production design, a beautiful and haunting score, and a striking use of colour and contrast. The film is also emotionally engaging, with a compelling and moving plot, a strong and relatable protagonist, and a sweet and sincere romance.
The film is not only a historical drama, but also a universal and timeless story, that speaks to the current issues of racism, intolerance, and violence. It also delivers a positive and inspiring message, that kindness can make a difference, that forgiveness can heal wounds, and that family can be found in unexpected places. The film is a tribute to the victims and survivors of the Holocaust, and a reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from the past.
The film is suitable for both young and adult audiences, as it balances the harsh realities of war with the innocence and optimism of youth. It also respects the intelligence and sensitivity of the viewers, as it does not shy away from the brutality and tragedy of the events, but also does not exploit or sensationalise them. The film is a respectful and faithful adaptation of the graphic novel, that preserves its spirit and vision.
White Bird is a film that deserves to be seen and appreciated by a wide and diverse audience. It is a film that will make you think, feel, and reflect. It is a film that will make you appreciate the value of life, the power of love, and the beauty of art. It is a film that will make you a better person.
White Bird is one of the best films of the year 2023, and one of the best films about the Holocaust ever made. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is a film that you will not forget.