Movie Review: Schindler's List

Schindler’s List is the award winning movie by director Steven Spielberg who directed huge hits like the Jurassic Park series. While the theme of the movie is similar to other war time Nazi movies, Spielberg lends a human touch to it which captivates the viewer almost immediately. Oskar Schindler, is a self centered businessman who hires Jewish workers for his factory only because they’re cheaper than Polish ones and not because he likes them. Subsequently, however, as the atrocities against them by the Germans increase and become more brutal, he empathizes with them and does his best to save as many as possible. During the course of the film we also see Amon Goeth’s character, a local military commander, unfold. His intense hatred for them is chilling and we are shown instances of how he kills Jews for sport.

The violence in the film is often gory and brutal and Spielberg spares no efforts in making it as realistic as possible. The cinematography is outstanding and the use of black and white helps in making the film all the more dark and horrifying. The acting is excellent and is one of the major contributors to the success of the film. Liam Neeson, who plays Schindler does so with finesse and precision. His character slowly evolves in the film from a self interested person to one who is hell bent on saving as many Jewish lives as he can. Ralph Fiennes, as Goeth, who reels on the edge of madness, plays his role with brilliance and conviction.  Ben Kingsley also essays his role as the simple and quiet clerk Itztahk Stern with ease and clarity.

Even though I feel that the film is macabre in parts, it is a just and fitting portrayal of the horrors of Nazi Germany. It also brings out the contrast between good and evil and makes possible the belief that love and friendship in the time of war can also exist. These factors have contributed in making the film a compelling and outstanding cinematic experience for me.