The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

A timeless story of innocence lost and humanity found.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (or in American English, Pajamas) is a film that profoundly moved me. Stories of the Holocaust have always interested me as evidenced by a multitude of research papers throughout my school years. This one is a bit different as it is told from the perspective of a young German boy, Bruno (played beautifully by English actor, Asa Butterfield), whose innocence doesn't understand the very adult world around him. In one scene, a camp inmate helps dress young Bruno's wounded knee where he discloses peeling potatoes has not always been his life's work. It nestled a bit of naive humor on a very grave subject, but did so without becoming preachy or condescending. It was interesting to hear the story told from the German perspective. The hauntingly beautiful James Horner score adds the perfect balance of innocence while never letting us forget the true nature of the environment.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is based on a 2006 novel by Irish novelist John Boyne. Tossing the nonsense Twilight books aside, this will be my next read.

Currently, the movie is only playing in 406 theaters throughout the United States (3 of which are in Salt Lake). With Twilight and another James Bond movie out, I hope this unique film doesn't get swept away without notice. If you see it playing in your area, I strongly encourage you to go see it. Please note, however, it is PG-13 for a reason. The subject matter may be difficult for some to watch. Difficult, but as I said, profoundly moving.