Great film.

Rating: 9/10 (5 December 2010)

Touching upon a well-worn and sensitive subject, this still manages to be one of the most notable and moving films I've ever seen. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is an overwhelming story of the power friendship can truly hold. Mark Herman has created a masterpiece. Set in Nazis Germany, the story is seen through the eyes of Bruno, (Asa Butterfield) an eight year old destined to be an explorer. Living comfortably with his wealthy family in Berlin, he is blissfully unaware of the horrors that are unfolding in the real world. However his parents' protective grasp to keep Bruno ignorant is tainted. Bruno's father is promoted from his desk job to commanding a work camp in the middle of nowhere. Bruno cannot understand why he's forbidden to visit the 'farm' nor the sudden icy tension between his parents. Bruno's curious nature takes over as he makes friends with Shmuel, (Jack Scanlon) a genial Jewish boy being held in the camp. The unlikely friendship between the two boys was performed to perfection, very honest and believable. Their innocence in the face of evil is gradually spiked towards revelation as they discover horrific truths, yet without real understanding of it.
My only criticism is that all the characters speak in a straightforward English accent, despite them portraying Germans. This is a little surprising nevertheless I got used to it. The cast was faultless. The characters were portrayed very well, particularly Vera Farmiga who played the part of Brunos mother wonderfully, dynamic as a distressed woman. Both Butterfield and Scanlon delivered strong, poignant performances. Bruno's father (David Thewlis) performs in such a harsh and cold manner, even towards his wife and children. A difficult role to produce, but he manages it superbly. Without patronizing, this film connected with both children and adults alike. It was perfectly weighted in every way. Just prepare to feel emotion at the harrowing, killer blow of a finale.