REVIEW: “Bonhoeffer” (2024)

As a cinephile with a keen interest in biographical dramas that delve deep into the lives of remarkable individuals, I must say that “Bonhoeffer” is a compelling and powerful film that successfully captures the spirit of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. The film’s non-linear narrative structure allows for an immersive exploration of Bonhoeffer’s life, from his humble beginnings to his eventual martyrdom.

In the historical drama “Bonhoeffer”, filmmaker Todd Komarnicki endeavors to narrate the captivating real-life account of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor, theologian, and outspoken opponent of Nazism. Jonas Dassler assumes the challenging role of embodying the central character, whose life was defined by bravery, tenacity, oppression, and ultimately, martyrdom.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, born on February 4, 1906, in Breslau (now Poland), was raised in a nurturing and expansive family. At the young age of 21, he had completed his Doctor of Theology degree, and by 25, he was ordained as a minister. However, the trajectory of his life took an unexpected turn with Adolf Hitler’s ascension to power and the expansion of Nazism within Germany. Bonhoeffer played a pivotal role in safeguarding the church from the Third Reich’s control, but he didn’t stop there; he ventured beyond the pulpit to assist persecuted Jews and even contributed to a plot to assassinate Hitler.

In the process of recounting Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life, one will find themselves with a substantial amount of material to explore. However, “Bonhoeffer” might be criticized for incorporating aspects typical of biopic genres in an attempt to condense the narrative. Yet, director Volker Schlöndorff does not solely rely on these conventions. Instead, he infuses unique perspectives both thematically and structurally into the film. Ultimately, it’s the genuine and motivating truth behind Bonhoeffer’s story that forms the backbone of the movie, resulting in a compelling, thought-provoking, and emotionally resonant experience.

In a non-traditional manner, Komarnicki narrates Bonhoeffer’s tale, first delving into 1914, his tranquil childhood abode in the countryside of Germany, before swiftly transporting us to 1945 Bavaria where he is detained for his resistance against the Nazis, particularly his role in the plan to assassinate Hitler. As he ponders his impending destiny, he recalls significant moments from his extraordinary life.

Komarnicki guides us back to significant stages in Bonhoeffer’s life journey, allowing us to observe how the death of his elder brother during World War I deeply affected 12-year-old Dietrich. Later on, we join him as he studies at Union Seminary in New York, having been recognized as Berlin’s brightest theological student. It is here that he forges a friendship with a man named Frank Fisher (portrayed by David Jonsson, known from “Alien: Romulus”), who introduces Dietrich to a unique form of spirituality, jazz music, and shockingly reveals to him prejudice and hatred that he had never encountered before.

However, it’s only when Dietrich comes home that the harshness of reality hits – Hitler has risen to power. One of the most alarming aspects of this is the Nazi Party’s control over the church. This manifested in several ways, such as removing Jewish scriptures and symbolism, promoting pastors who supported Nazism, and so on. Initially, Dietrich harbored a hopeful, uninformed perspective. But soon, his optimism and innocence fade, replaced by a strong determination to uphold his principles. This newfound resolve pushes him not just to challenge the church’s current trajectory, but also to speak out against Hitler himself.

Dietrich’s unyielding bravery makes him a marked man, but he persists in his battle for the church to uphold truth and resist the deceptive teachings of the German Reich Church. Inspired by his steadfastness is his confidant and fellow clergyman Martin Niemöller (portrayed exceptionally well by August Diehl in the 2019 film “A Hidden Life”). They work together to establish secret educational institutions and play a key role in establishing the Confessing Church.

Komarnicki extends the narrative, highlighting Dietrich’s actions to covertly aid Jews in leaving the country alongside his brother-in-law Hans (Flula Borg) and his clandestine activities in Sussex, England, where he privately persuaded clergy to disclose information about Germany’s events to foreign audiences. His role in the plan to assassinate Hitler and the ethical quandary he faced as a pastor and pacifist are also depicted. Although some aspects could have used more focus, they all contribute to providing a clearer understanding of Bonhoeffer’s remarkable life journey.

Historically, Dietrich Bonhoeffer was put to death on April 9, 1945, just weeks before Germany capitulated to the Allies at the age of 39. The specifics of his death have been a subject of debate, but “Bonhoeffer” offers a more refined portrayal of his last moments that underscores the magnitude of his selfless sacrifice. It serves as a poignant conclusion to an authentic tale, illustrating his unwavering stance against inexpressible wickedness.

2024-11-21 18:57

REVIEW: “Bonhoeffer” (2024)

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