Review of Sophie's Choice (1982) by Jamie D — 13 Nov 2010

Sophie: Don't you see? We are dying. I longed desperately to escape, to pack my bags and free, but I did not.

An incredibly intense and powerful film, made iconic by the breathtaking and awe-inspiring performance by Meryl Streep. A fairly sombre and slow film, for the most part, with glimpses of optimism here and there. On the whole, this post-war account of an Holocaust survivor details the impact that the attrocities had on the people affected. Sophie's life is full of mystery and wonder, as she forms a life-long relationship with Stingo, whilst maintaing her love for Nathan. However these post-war moments are overshadowed towards the end of the film, when Sophie begins reliving her traumas in the war. The 'Choice' that Sophie is presented with is harrowing, and performed and executed to perfection. Apparently this scene was shot once, and stands out as the definitive moment of the film, and perhaps the career as a whole of Streep. Mellow and slow at times, but outstanding at others. One of the most powerful World War II and Holocaust movies of all times, perhaps only second to Schindler's list. Harrowing and magnificent.