Friendship in the Time of War

Read Time:3 Minute, 59 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
White Bird
–

Genre: Drama, Family, Adventure, Biography, War
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 2h
Director(s): Marc Forster
Writer(s): Mark Bomback, R.J. Palacio
Cast: Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, Bryce Gheisar, Gillian Anderson, Helen Mirren, Jo Stone-Fewings
Where To Watch: coming to theaters nationwide on October 4, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Marc Forster's WHITE BIRD navigates through the turbulent history and the serene flow of contemporary life, blending them into a compelling narrative that challenges the heart and mind. In adapting RJ Palacio's acclaimed novel, Forster doesn't just tell a story set during World War II; he crafts a portal into the resilience of the human spirit, spotlighting the transformative power of kindness even in the darkest times—a slow burn with a payoff that’s worth it in nearly every way.

The film presents us with Sara Blum (Ariella Glaser,) whose serene upbringing in a picturesque French village is interrupted by the shadow of Nazi occupation. Once filled with the innocence of academia and the arts, her days become a survival saga where fear and bravery dance a precarious tango. In these testing times, she finds an improbable savior in Julien (Orlando Schwerdt,) a classmate who embodies an indomitable spirit of life. Their friendship is a beacon of hope against the encroaching darkness, a poignant symbol of human endurance and defiance.

Mirroring Sara’s past is the “future” struggle of her grandson, Julian (Bryce Gheisar,) who faces his battles against bullying and isolation in the “present day.” Helen Mirren, portraying the older Sara, bridges these eras with a masterful performance that injects gravitas and wisdom into the narrative, suggesting that the echoes of the past still reverberate powerfully to this day. This intergenerational dialogue enriches the film's texture, underscoring the timeless relevance of the past's harsh lessons.

While WHITE BIRD soars with its thematic depth, it occasionally encounters turbulence in its dual narrative structure. The subplot with Julian’s modern-day challenges sometimes disrupts the historical narrative’s flow, making the film's pacing slightly disjointed. However, these moments are deliberately woven to draw parallels between the atrocities of history and the injustices of today, emphasizing a universal need for empathy and understanding across all ages.

The ensemble cast delivers a strong performance, with Mirren portraying Sara as the cornerstone of the film’s emotional core. Glaser's young Sara brings a touching blend of vulnerability and grit to her role, making her character’s journey authentic. Schwerdt stands out as Julien, whose physical challenges amplify his heroic qualities, showcasing a profound moral strength that defies his bodily constraints.

Visually, WHITE BIRD's lush vistas of the French countryside contrast with the dark undertones of war, creating a visual symphony that enhances the narrative’s emotional dynamics. The barn, a literal and metaphorical sanctuary, symbolizes the enduring power of hope and creativity amidst adversity.

Focusing more on personal stories than the exhaustive details of World War II, the film cultivates a more profound emotional engagement with the audience. This approach allows the historical context to resonate through the characters' experiences. The film concludes on a note that is both foreseeable and moving, affirming the importance of remembering and learning from our collective history.

WHITE BIRD delivers a narrative that is not only heartfelt but also instructive. It navigates familiar territory with grace, reminding us that the lessons of history are invaluable tools for crafting a more compassionate present. This film isn’t just seen; it’s felt, urging viewers to absorb and propagate its enduring message of hope and human dignity.

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[photo courtesy of LIONSGATE]

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