"We're not supposed to be friends, you and me. We're meant to be enemies. Did you know that?"

Rating: 8/10 (2 March 2011)

Bruno, the son of a Nazi commandant, is made to move house on account of his father's new promotion. On arrival at his new residence Bruno spots a mysterious farm behind his house which sparks his curiosity. Unable to resist the urge, Bruno sets out to explore and relieve his boredom.
Vera Farmiga steals the show as Bruno's mother Elsa. Her struggle to come to come to grips with her husband's new role is heart-breaking and authentic. Some of the issues are confronting but handled with dignity by Director, Mark Herman.
The film draws on emotion more than anything. The cast have a great chemistry and it's this part of the film that will attract you the most.
Direction: 10/10 (Mark Herman's unravelling of the story is delicately done) Cinematography: 10/10 (Benoit Delhomme achieves some elegantly vibrant tones and movement) Editing: 10/10 (Michael Ellis transports the audience into the child's world with ease) Acting: 9/10 (Vera Farmiga is simply captivating in her role as Elsa) Dialogue: 7/10 (Riveting performances aided where the screenplay lacked) Sound: 8/10 (There's a rawness that feels like it's missing from some of the outdoor scenes) Effects: 8/10 (Some safe decisions and nothing is exaggerated) Art Direction: 7/10 (Although some sets look too prettied up, the overall feel is quite appealing) Costumes: 8/10 (Some well detailed uniforms bring authoritativeness to the soldiers) Music and/or Score: 10/10 (Beautiful piano medleys merge beautifully into the film)
Total Score: 87/100
Many films have been made on the pivotal subject of this film. Most use the pain and suffering as a tool to make a strong point but this film never gives up on its true meaning – friendship and innocence.