Heartfelt history

Rating: 8/10 (2 April 2011)

The Pianist is a very gripping and heartfelt movie. Based on the memoirs of the talented pianist Szpilman, a polish Jew who survived the German occupation of Warzaw. The story is about his experiences inside and outside the ghetto the Germans established, how close he came to death by the oppressing forces. But also how he found both cruelty and kindness were least expected. At the same time it is a good testament of how Jews in common around him were treated. How many were killed or deported, fates that Szpilman only narrowly escaped.
Well acted with Adrien Brody in the lead, and directed by Roman Polanski, the story is handled delicately. Both grand schemes and details are told. Most notably Szpilman's musicality is used to enhance feelings and memories in a few scenes. It's told and acted in a fashion, mostly low key, that augments the important statement it is. It also makes the movie, and the characters, easy to connect with and feel for. It's hard not to get engaged in the movie. Just like it is supposed to be.
8/10