Review of Schindler's List (1993) by Simon H — 06 Jun 2014

Don't let the long running time put you off. Schindler's List is one of cinema's greatest masterpieces. Made with such care that you can really understand the horrors that the Jews had to suffer all those years ago. The film doesn't hold back on the violence and drives home how so many men, women and children were brutally murdered for no reason at all. The idea to film in black and white, as well as with handheld cameras give it more of a documentary feel to the movie and brings it to life more. John Williams also creates a score which is not too dramatic but enough to add emotion to a scene.

The acting should be praised immensely. Liam Neeson brings his caring side to Oskar Schindler but it is Ralph Fiennes and Ben Kingsley that deserves the most praise. Fiennes as Amon Goeth couldn't be more evil if he tried. His arrogance makes him so alive and makes you believe you are watching the real war criminal. Something which to one of the surviving Jews would agree on as Fiennes came across as too familiar. Fiennes deserved his Oscar nomination but how Kingsley wasn't given a nominee is beyond me. You completely forget you are watching Ben Kingsley. He is so unrecognisable that you fall straight into the real Itzhak Stern.

There are some scenes which stand out and stick in your mind long after finishing the film. The ending being a particular example. Schindler's List is a film that will make you appreciate what you are so lucky to have.