A must see satire: a reminder to worse times

Rating: 8/10 (9 February 2020)

Biopics and historical films make charming materials to watch. They provide learning and insights into what ought to be or not. 'Jojo Rabbit' is a seemingly light hearted treatise into a bygone era of hate, suspicion and state-run terror in Hitler's Germany towards the end of World War II.
The film unfold through the travails of a fancifully jingoistic Jojo (Roman Davis) who is charmed by Hitler's Third Reich, albeit in an innocent way. Jojo is indoctrinated by Adolf (played by Taika Waititi) a comical, imaginary version of Adolf Hitler, who serves as Jojo's soul-keeper. He is an active participant in the Hitler youth camp along with his best friend Yorki (Archie Yates). The camp is run by Captain Klenzendorf (Sam Rockwell) assisted by Fraulein Rahm (Rebel Wilson) - hilariously enacted by both. Jojo's mother Rosie (Scarlett Johansson) an anti-Nazi rebel, secretly harbours a Jewish girl Elsa (Thomasin McKenzie) in her attic, hitherto unknown to Jojo. Soon Jojo finds out about Elsa - which confuses his mind about loyalty and rightness.
The plot develops around Jojo and Elsa - and how Jojo's false notions about Jews transforms into reality, resulting in his liking for Elsa. In the meantime Jojo's mother is hanged by Nazis, leaving him in the sole company of Elsa. And outside, the regime is falling, while the Allies troops romp in - and the film ending on with feel-good factor.
The plain narrative, embellished with layers of fantasy laced in between, makes the film a pleasant viewing. The witty and at times hilarious dialogues, makes the satire feel full of life. The film is also a gentle reminder to the worse times, not long ago - and why we must cherish the values gained.
I will vote this for an Oscar.