This is a very simple, yet powerful film. If this was a stage production, the sets will have cost relatively little.
I liked it for its simplicity and clarity of messages from the characters. I disliked it in one or two places where the Commandant and his lieutenant seems to overplay aggression somewhat.I am pleased I have seen this film as it is time well spent.
The prospect a seeing a film with two child unknown actors in the main roles must not put you off seeing this film. Their acting is out of this world, utterly convincing and fantastically moving. The plot based on the holocaust has not been done from this angle before and I cannot imagine a better way of doing it than through the eyes of a child. The areas of want are in fact in some of the adult acting which is a bit OTT.
We had it all before. War destroys lives. But this is seen through the eyes of a young boy who is trying to make sense of it all. I prefered the book but the films faithfuly portrays the story. Highly recommended.