BONHOEFFER: PASTOR. SPY. ASSASSIN is not just another war movie; it is the dramatization of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s journey as he grapples between upholding his pacifist moral convictions or joining the resistance in a plot to assassinate the Führer and save millions of Jewish lives.
A German Lutheran pastor known for his resistance to the Nazi dictatorship and his intense opposition to Adolf Hitler’s genocidal eradication of Jews, Bonhoeffer’s extraordinary human spirit in the face of adversity rises during the darkest of days despite the odds that are clearly pitted against him.
From Angel Studios, Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin is written and directed by Todd Kamarnicki with Dietrich Bonhoeffer effectively represented by Jonas Dassler. This political period drama is beautiful presented with cinematic mastery visible through the creative vision of Kamarnicki. Costuming and location choices are authentic and believable as the audience is seamlessly transported back and forth between time periods.
This film is let down by some historical inaccuracy, perhaps more so by the omissions within Bonhoeffer’s story. While this does take some of the essence away from depicting the depth of his spirit, at over two hours long it does well to create impactfully dramatic moments that direct the audience toward an understanding of his loving relationship with God and family and the heart-wrenching moral and emotional conflict this man faced.
Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin will be appreciated by those of Christian faith, but in saying that, those of no religion will not feel uncomfortable. Bonhoeffer’s story deserves to be told – it is respectful and reverent and well worth the investment of two hours of your time.
Tickets to Bonhoeffer will be available for purchase in 135+ cinemas nationwide through Rialto Distribution, starting March 13.
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
