DEFIANCE Film Critique
The best moment in the film comes when the Rabbi is praying to god to choose another people and to leave them alone. That seemed more in keeping with what I would expect from a situation like that. And there is this ‘ridiculous’ logic that they can keep traveling through the woods and everything will be all right. Of course they were up against the Nazis, who weren’t exactly the brightest bulbs in the chandeliers. At the end of the day, “Defiance” was just another run of the mill drama/thriller. I didn’t really identify with anyone in the film and I really didn’t grow much affection for any of these characters. I thought they were all ruthless and all a little short-sighted in what they were doing. I am sure they are heroes for doing it and I’m not denying the bravery, but there was also a little selfishness therein.
I do not recommend “Defiance”. It’s nothing special. It’s run-of-the-mill and just like every other Holocaust film that also wants to serve as a popcorn experience. Just go out and rent “Schindler’s List” again. Or, if you want a better Holocaust film from this year, check out “The Reader” or “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas”.
