Genuinely Life-Changing Film

Rating: 10/10 (29 April 2016)

Although 'life-changing' may sound a little too dramatic, I actually do feel that this film made such a remarkable, deep impression on me, that it must have changed my life, at least in some way. It is certainly amongst the few films (and books) that have managed to alter the way I think about life.
I truly cannot recommend this film enough, to anyone, from anywhere. Not only is it a wonderful resource for learning about the Holocaust and World War II, especially for those who perhaps are less aware of Italy's role during the war, but it manages to almost unintentionally, and very simply, teach the viewer about this.
The Holocaust, of course, is a crucial part of the setting for this extraordinary story about someone who, on many counts, is just an ordinary man. However, feelings we are left with by the end of the film are not especially due to having watched a 'Holocaust Film', as it were. Our thoughts do not so much focus on the horrors of the Second World War, as on how incredible this man was in the extent to which he loved his family.
By using universally understandable humor, and in a fantastic, unique way, bringing a light atmosphere to the subject of the Holocaust (whilst not once understating the sheer evils that occurred, may I add), the film, very cleverly, enables us, as the viewer, to understand the experience in the same way as his son does.
Whether you speak Italian or not, is irrelevant. This film will leave a great impression on your heart, whatever language you speak.