See it, but bring a box of tissues.

Rating: 10/10 (9 January 2003)

Suffering is the root of great art, and so, out of the survivors of one of the darkest and devastating moments in history, emerges an incredible artistic achievement, which is this film.
This is a must-see film for every human being. It brings home the horrors of Nazi treatment of Jews - as well as some Jews' treatment of others, like no other World War II film.
Adrien Brody and the rest of the cast are superb. Adding to their performances is a sparse score, mostly major works of classical music, that serve profoundly to punctuate the mood at all the right moments. The cinematography is likewise apt.
The history is related unsentimentally, through the eyes of the main character, who watched unspeakable horrors and documented it in a memoir from which this movie was made. By its honesty, the film becomes personal, and thus not only evokes, but demands an emotional response.
This film will move you to tears, so be prepared for a difficult emotional journey. But it is a profound journey you will appreciate, artistically and humanly.