Satirical yet disingenuous

Rating: 6/10 (14 January 2020)

There are plenty of things to like about Jojo Rabbit, the performances from the actors are all strong and there are some nice moments of comedy and poignancy. However, my big issue with the film was its portrayal of a Germany that in 1945 was on its knees, had been bombed to destruction and yet the street that the lovely Jojo lives on appears untouched. Even when we see the final battle (why oh why was there a need to show both Russian and American soldiers?) and the ruins, Jojo's street remains unblemished. The hidden Jewish girl, Elsa, would have been hiding for many years, unable to go out yet appears almost glowing. Jojo's mother, Scarlet Johansson, dresses well, has lots of make-up. To me this dilutes the power of the film, the fantasy world of Jojo would have been so much more powerful set against a realistic backdrop.
Jojo's interaction with "Hitler" is also problematic - he's either the product of Jojo's imagination or he isn't, but the way he behaves in some instances feels like he has a life of his own.
This could have been a classic with all the ingredients it has but ended up being a slightly above average comedy.