Predictable? Yes, of course: for all with even rudimentary knowledge of history

Rating: 10/10 (4 December 2011)

This review includes spoilers: in its final two-to-three paragraphs, most clearly so.
Difficult to find words for how this film made me feel; others have already done so, and admirably. If there's a bit of sameness to some of the descriptions? Perhaps this reflects a kind of universality: of the film, its effect on audiences, and how certain scenes are excruciating for anyone (with a heart) who chooses to watch.
Some felt the ending was predictable. Although I regarded other outcomes as possible, I hoped they would not occur. The ones I could envision: all would have been unspeakable in their cowardice: a turning away, an unwillingness to grapple with the immensity of the Final Solution to the "Jewish problem" and how despicable it was.
To those who complain of not feeling surprised: really, this is hardly the only film to depict one of the most significant and brutal episodes in 20th-century history. Nor the only one to convey its horrors through a child's eyes: although with far more (appropriate) seriousness than its predecessor Life is Beautiful. Also more directly than Fugitive Pieces: a film which holds certain advantages over this one, in complexity and depth. But the latter takes a different approach to the subject; direct comparison may not be appropriate.
Nearly all are aware: among those sent to Nazi concentration camps, few survived. The historical truth places enormous limitations on possible (and sensible) outcomes.
In thinking about what choices the filmmakers might have made: I am glad they chose not to refrain entirely from "zooming out" during the final scenes. We might have been excluded from sympathizing with anyone but the two boys whose unlikely friendship drives the story. No, we are also invited to experience the fear, hope and confusion of all the human beings who have been locked inside, feeling almost certain that an enforced "shower" is not what awaits them.
Another wise decision: to end the film at this point, rather than attempting some sort of epilogue. Among other faults, it would (we imagine) have been inelegant. Nothing else remained to be said.