Written, directed, and acting - Taika Waititi - has truly hit the right notes in regards to confronting nationalism. Johannes (JoJo played by Roman Griffin Davis) is ten and totally psyched to go to Hitler youth camp. He's got the uniform, the knife, and his imaginary "friend" Adolf Hitler (played by Waititi) pops in to pump him up.
Never fear, JoJo is truly a kid with a heart and soul. Stuff occurs at the camp that make him question mob mentality. Back home, different walks with his mother and things she says (Scarlett Johansson) demonstrate she's working with resistance. And after hearing strange sounds, JoJo discovers his mother's been hiding a 17 year old Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) in a cupboard space in his sister's room. He's not sure what to do with this information and in talking to her he has to acknowledge to himself that she's okay - not a monster.
A lot happens in this ninety minute movie - there are some funny bits just because JoJo is so dorky, and Hitler is so ridiculous. But trust me, it's poignant, deep, and the kid is SO darn good in this film.
I don't see how you could pull off that story and not be quirky.
ReplyDeleteit's quirky in a good way with the right message
DeleteI'm not familiar with this one. Sounds intriguing.
ReplyDeleteI think you'd like it.
DeleteHow do you find such obscure, little known winners, Joanne? I don't know, but I'm grateful. This sounds deep yet palatable.
ReplyDeleteBe well, and have a great week.
I read the paper and keep up on movie reviews - always looking for entertainment and stuff that makes me think. Glad to share
DeleteLoved the review Joanne although late in my day as workmen have started their repairs here.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your week.
Yvonne.
glad the worker bees showed up for you
DeleteAs soon as I heard about it quirky sure came to mind.
ReplyDeleteyep - a bit different but all good
DeleteHi Joanne - if it comes here I'll check it out - but may have missed it ... cheers Hilary
ReplyDelete