The good, the despicable, the victims

Rating: 9/10 (14 July 2003)

I was eager to view this well-regarded feature via a DVD presentation and see what kind of "Making of. . ." extra would be available. Universal did a great job of packaging this quality film; I have seen many memorable films about the WW II Jewish Holocaust but this ranks among the absolute top tier. The details about Szpilman's music and the corroboration about his eyewitness memoir written in the 1950's helps build the authenticity of this project. The use of locations that were totally wrecked also helps the director's and screenwriter's visions to shine through. I am impressed by this young actor's commitment and his implicit diligence at conveying the talent and intelligence of the Polish musician. Brody illustrates how "pretty faces" are not the only men worth building cinematic casting lists around; I can't imagine Brad Pitt or Ben Affleck in such a role that requires intellect and solitary mundane discipline (his piano technique and artistry). Kudos to Mr. Brody - - your Academy Award is a worthy one to a hard worker ! For those who with little awareness of the situation of the Polish people during the NAZI regime, this is a great "intro" and will display the many-sided nature of people during war time: the good and humane, the bad/sadistic/wickedly selfish, and the victimized people who were vulnerable and too trusting in a compromised "modern civilization" like Europe in the 1930's. This film is a 10* product - - highly to be recommended to the young who will talk over the graphic victimization with understanding mentors and older adults who know about this crucial tragic event in the 20th Century that must never be repeated!