Review of Schindler's List (1993) by Rory P — 02 Nov 2013

I sometimes come across vaguely negative appraisals of this film (e.g. certain reviews of Shoah highlight the limits of this film. Terry Gilliam's disapproving comments.) While I certainly agree with some of the criticisms (and welcome criticism of Spielberg's work), overall I think said negativity is a tad unfair.

Its flawed sure, the ending can easily be perceived as overly sentimental (especially when contrasted with the cool headed + heartfelt depiction which came before it), and you may be critical of the presentation of some elements. You could argue it is an americanisation of history, with it's sheen of 'absolute realism' mixed with the dodgy supplanting of the English language. You could argue that the subject itself is beyond representation, an unknowable horror unless experienced, so significant to human truth that to represent it, in the guise of absolute realism, with a positive angle*, is perhaps in bad taste.

But ultimately, if not representative of a greater reality, the majority of this is riveting stuff, fantastically written, acted and shot. The central presence of Fiennes and Neeson is compelling, Fiennes in particular giving the performance of his life. This is a great drama with some wonderful moments. Despite the sentimental ending I found the film to be very moving and could easily watch it again.

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*A positive angle - No doubt influenced by the economic imperatives of Hollywood, among other.