Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a name I had encountered occasionally, but this was the first time I had done a deep dive into the story by viewing the film, Bonhoeffer. He was a German Lutheran pastor, neo-orthodox theologian, and anti-Nazi dissident with fascinating theological views, even apart from the dramatic circumstances of his life. This new biopic by Angel Studios will educate many more on an often-overlooked figure from World War II history. Flashbacks from his childhood through his ultimate sacrifice offer a vivid character study coupled with gripping performances from the cast.
While movies about the holocaust go back decades, Bonhoeffer offers a unique perspective not often covered in these films. Someone like Dietrich Bonhoeffer wasn't initially a target of the Nazis and, for a time, even was able to pretend to be a loyal follower of Hitler to rescue Jewish prisoners. Bonhoeffer offers viewers a chance to examine the holocaust from the perspective of a Lutheran in Germany, watching his country slowly slip into something he no longer recognized.
Given the subject matter of much of his life, Dietrich Bonhoeffer's story would always be sobering. Yet this latest offering steps up to the challenge and portrays a challenging story that will leave an impression. Although I wish the film had explored some complex theological questions more deeply, I still found it engaging and memorable for portraying a genuinely heroic man.
The film takes some daring and influential narrative wrinkles, such as paralleling the prejudice of the Nazis with racism in America. Bonhoeffer's character arc touches on deep questions regarding our treatment of others and how far one is compelled to go in the face of evil.
Actor Jonas Dassler turns in a commanding performance in the title role. While the supporting cast is also strong, this is Dassler's film. Effective at all points of Bonhoeffer's spiritual journey, he embodies Bonhoeffer at his early naivety and ultimate courage in the face of martyrdom. While the film's climactic moments are noticeably toned down from historical accounts, one can forgive these licenses to help the film reach a wider audience. Despite this, the film's narrative is still compelling, building tension and dread toward the inevitable conclusion.
Releasing a film like this one during the holiday season is an exciting choice. In another world, I could see Dassler and the movie in talks for some recognition during awards season, which would make the film's release window appropriate. Yet, given the industry's current landscape, I expect the secular awards to have little space for a faith-based film.
Given much of what we face in our society today, a film like this can feel eerily timely, although we must be careful to avoid projecting modern politics onto events in the past. At specific points in the movie, modern evangelical phrases or contemporary political references found their way into the film's dialogue, slightly diverting attention from the narrative and main themes. The film also oversimplified Bonhoeffer's theology in places a tad too much, which is a missed opportunity for offering more challenging meat to chew on. Overall, the film is an impactful offering from Angel Studios that should inspire viewers to dig deeper into the life of the historical Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
The film's concluding moments and several notable interactions should resonate in your mind long after the credits roll. Despite denominational differences, Bonhoeffer's Communion celebration with his fellow prisoners before their execution hit home hard for me as a Catholic. And, even if it felt a bit Hollywood, I must admit that the "strawberry" motif from the film's beginning and end resonated with me, too.
Like most biopics done well, for whatever areas I wish received a bit more focus, the film encourages viewers like myself to dig deeper and learn more about Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the message he lived and died for. Angel Studios has another prestigious entry in their ever-growing library.
J.J. Francesco is a longtime contributor to the NRT Staff. He's published the novel 'Because of Austin' and regularly seeks new ways to engage faith, life, and community. His new novel, 'When Miracles Can Dream,' is out NOW!
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