During the advancement of German forces into Russia in 1941, four brothers used their knowledge of the surrounding forest to avoid the horrific tragedies of the Holocaust. Based on the book Defiance; The Bielski Partisans, this film is a historical piece that shows another side of how Jewish people survived during this time of terror. The film was nominated for an Oscar as well as three other awards. Daniel Craig (James Bond) Liev Schreiber (X-Men) and Jamie Bell (Jumper) star in a tribute to brothers whom become heroes during WWII.
With the advancement of Germany into the Eastern sectors of Europe in 1941, the Bielski brothers seek refuge in the surrounding forests of Belorussia. Being Jewish, they hide from the local authorities whom turn in Jews to the SS for ransom. While seeking help from a family friend, they are forced to make the decision to help others to avoid the German imprisonment and execution. They venture to the woods for cover and safety and in turn more and more refugees find their way to the camp. The more that people come, the more pressure is put on the brothers to provide food and security. In an act of desperation, the Bielski’s turn to a band of Russian freedom fighters to help. The trade off comes at the expense of a splitting of the brothers, whom are at ends with each other over power and control of the group in the woods. Unrest settles in on the group as winter set in and food becomes scarcer, but with the leadership of Tuvia Bielski (Craig), they strive through and make it to the spring despite facing sickness and social conflicts amongst the refugees. Although this film chronicles only about a year of time, they stayed in the woods living for about 2 years more which is a tribute to the resolve and dedication to a cause as simple as survival.
The special features section is full of interesting tidbits on this great piece of history. Of course a director commentary is available, but the true nature of hearing the story from the children and family of the brothers was inspiring and captivating. The behind the scenes gave a perspective on the sacrifices that were endured and seeing pictures and video of the brothers gives a feeling of realism and draws you into their life. Also in this section are pictures of a few of the over 1200 survivors that owe their lives to the heroics and selflessness of a few.
From the opening of the film to the credits and even the extras, I was impressed and amazed by the story as it unfolded. The acting and direction was spot on and I couldn’t have asked for a better cast. Even though Daniel Craig is big star, I felt like the lack of big names to encompass the feel of the times and not a distraction from the amazing true story as it should be remembered. These brothers didn’t tell of this story earlier because they didn’t feel like they did anything note worthy, but that is the only thing I wish that could have been told is some of the events that took place from their own mouth. The closest you can get is through the memories and conversations from their families. I could have watched more of the movie if it were available. The Bielski brothers show the courage and heroics that come from adversity.
Reviewed by Michael Albaugh
