A satire that will not disappoint

Rating: 10/10 (11 November 2019)

This film threads a fine satirical fiber through a sensitive needle's eye, bringing a new perspective, and relevance to the ramifications of ignorance; fascism, suffering, trauma. It deploys the most adorable face and character ever brought to the screen, making the story accessible to new generations while retaining a modicum of dignity and respect. There is no doubt that the truth is far graver than depicted in this film, though horrific, the warmth from the characters belies the depth of the pain and suffering. But, it does so knowingly, from the first scene, with a Beatle's song, that reminds you that this film will not be a serious one. Instead, it is whimsical, and obviously drawn from the imagination of one with only second-hand understanding of WW2. But it checks many fantasy scenarios that have occupied wandering minds of the generations of people who followed the one that actually dealt with the scourge of the Nazi party, and other movements that resemble it. It reminds us of the simple fact that war is senseless, in an off-beat though endearing manner. It is always refreshing to hear familiar stories told by those with diverse perspectives because it reassures us of our value system's credentials by revealing just how universally accepted are the fundamental principles of respect, dignity, justice, and trust.