Product: Nowhere in Africa (2003)
Rating: 5.0
Somewhere Special
The year is 1938. Walter Redlich, a Jewish lawyer, has been living in Africa for six months. He moved there from Germany, all too aware of what the rise of the Nazis meant for he and his family. In Africa, he works as a simple farmhand near Nairobi. At the start of the film, we see him writing to his wife, Jettel. He is sending the money she and their daughter, Regina, will need to board a ship and head to Africa. He tells Jettel that it doesn't matter how long it takes the boat to reach Africa, as long as it takes them. He knows that the worst is yet to come for their country.Suffice it to say, Walter's wife and daughter make it to Africa, but to divulge anything more about "Nowhere In Africa" would be to take away from it, for much of the enjoyment derived from it is not knowing what will happen next. This is a movie that captures your interest and doesn't let go, even at the end. As the credits were rolling, I found myself wondering what would happen to the characters next. That is the sign of a great motion picture.Concerning the characters, it is one of the film's strengths that the people in it, while not completely likable at all times, are definitely interesting and textured. There is a depth to these characters. They act in ways that are complex, sometimes unpredictable. This isn't a connect-the-dots type of movie. It is an interesting, thought-provoking picture. One of my favorite characters was Owuor. He is an African, and is only supposed to be the Redlich's cook, but he becomes much, much more. He is trustworthy, wise, and devoted to the family. Quite a touching character.Kudos are in order for Gernot Roll, the cinematographer. Director Caroline Link has given us some spectacular views of Africa, and Roll brings out every vivid ounce of beauty that the locations have to offer. It truly seems like someplace special, even though the conditions are far below 'modern' standards. The musical score, by Niki Reiser and Jochen Schmidt-Hambrock is quite moving. It is used sparingly, but to great effect. I especially liked Owuor's theme.There is much to praise about "Nowhere In Africa", and very little to quibble over. It is over 2 hours long, but for the most part doesn't feel padded or extended in any way. The time in Africa seems idealized somewhat, but perhaps that is because we know what is happening in the Redlich's homeland, and the fate that could have befallen them there. As Walter says at one point, "We're alive." And really, that is the most important thing. There is also a message included about tolerance. The Redlichs experience intolerance toward them in Germany because they were Jewish, and yet Jettel shows disdain for the Africans when she first arrives on their continent. Walter is quick to point out her failings in that area.The people and events in "Nowhere In Africa" have lingered with me since I saw it a week ago. I keep thinking back to the lives explored, the issues raised, and the beauty of the continent on which it was set. The story moves along at just the right pace, and is never for a minute uninteresting. It is truly one of the best films I have ever seen.