Jojo Rabbit: Review

Rating: 7/10 (12 February 2020)

Adolf: (to Jojo) Let me give you some really good advice. Be the rabbit. The humble bunny can outwit all of his enemies. He's brave, and sneaky, and strong. Be the rabbit.
Honestly, I wasn't sure if it would work, but it does. Jojo Rabbit is the quintessential Taika Waititi film, and creates this phenomenal narrative for us. Give this film to any, literally any other director, and it could not work. Jojo Rabbit handles some seriously heavy and touchy topics very well, and actually keeps the usual overkill of politics at bay.
Outstanding performances were delivered from Scarlett Johansson, Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, Stephen Merchant (side note, google this guy and note that a carbon copy of a bearded Cillian Murphy), obviously Taika Waititi himself. And seriously, this film brought out 3 unknown actors & actresses, and showed us that you don't need to be a well-known actor to steal the show. Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKensie, and Archie Yates are absolute gems, and truly bring this film to light. You will see those names a hell of a lot more in the future, I promise that.
This is such an interesting story, and has such wit and humor, even in a dark time period. Particularly, Jojo Rabbit maintains a surprising sense of respect and honor for the actual historical events that it represents. Jojo Rabbit definitely deserved that Oscar (a first). I believe this film has solidified Taika's status as a director to reckon with, so keep an eye out for this ingenious and witty director's upcoming films.
"Pat's Rotten Tomatoes": 84%
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