Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “All the Light We Cannot See” narrates the tale of Marie-Laure Leblanc (portrayed by Aria Mia Loberti), a visually impaired French girl seeking refuge with her father and reclusive uncle in St. Malo, France. On the other side, we have Werner (played by Louis Hofmann), a brilliant teenager pressed into service by Hitler’s regime due to his radio repair skills. These two individuals share a hidden bond, a beacon of hope that guides them through the grim backdrop of World War II.
There’s a lot of money and beautiful cinematography in this adaptation, making it look stunning. However, the challenge lies in this: when you’re adapting a novel about a blind French girl who broadcasts illegal messages using a radio in the occupied town of Saint-Malo, and a reluctant German orphan secretly trained by the Third Reich for his exceptional radio skills, who gets captured and later seeks closure, you must focus on the deeper themes like the worth of art and life, the influence of evil, and the possibility of redemption. If you don’t, you might end up making it feel overly sentimental and clichéd. In fact, you need to ensure that every part of the story is unique and not something you can easily find on the internet.
This narrative carries a romantic essence that tiptoes on the edge of a fairy tale, resembling a fantastical world. It features Marie, confined like Rapunzel in an attic, and a malevolent jeweler-turned-Gestapo officer portrayed by Lars Eidinger, who relentlessly pursues a magical gem. “All the Light We Cannot See” exhibits moments where it introduces elements of reality into this quasi-mythical tale of two soulmates who share a unique connection. Notably, both Aria Mia Loberti and Nell Sutton, the young actress portraying Marie, are individuals with visual impairments. This casting choice, championed by Levy, serves the dual purpose of promoting representation and ensuring authenticity in the storytelling.
The talented filmmaker, Shawn Levy, developed a deep affection for “All the Light We Cannot See” well in advance of his involvement in the project to bring the 2014 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Anthony Doerr to life as a brand-new Netflix limited series, set for release on Thursday, November 2.
Story
“All The Light We Cannot See” is a tale that explores the presence of hope in the midst of complete devastation. The narrative revolves around two adolescents whose fates become entwined amidst the backdrop of World War II. We are introduced to Marie-Laure LeBlanc, a blind young girl residing in Nazi-occupied France, and Werner Pfenning, a German boy in the service of the Nazi army. As Marie and Werner’s paths converge, they come face to face with the harsh realities of war and, in each other, discover a shared humanity.
Actors
The cast of “All the Light We Cannot See” brings an exceptional level of depth and diversity to their roles. Aria Mia Loberti’s debut as the blind Marie-Laure LeBlanc is a significant step in promoting disability representation in Hollywood. Mark Ruffalo, renowned for his extensive acting career, portrays Marie-Laure’s loving father, Daniel LeBlanc, with remarkable skill. Hugh Laurie adds depth to the narrative as Etienne LeBlanc, a war veteran suffering from PTSD. Lars Eidinger takes on the role of Reinhold von Rumpel, a Nazi gemologist in pursuit of the enigmatic Sea of Flames diamond. Ed Skrein’s impactful performance as Herr Siedler significantly influences Werner’s fate. Marion Bailey’s portrayal of Madam Manec as a member of the French resistance is admirable. Luna Wedler’s strong presence as Jutta complements the story’s intense themes. Nell Sutton provides insight into Marie-Laure’s upbringing as a young version of the character.
All The Light We Cannot See [4 Episode List]
S1.E1 ∙ Episode #1.1
In August 1944, in Nazi-occupied Saint-Malo, Marie risks her life by broadcasting during an air raid. Werner, a young German soldier, secretly listens in.
S1.E2 ∙ Episode #1.2
During an intense interrogation, Marie recounts the Nazi invasion of Paris, while Werner reflects on a fateful visit from an SS officer to his orphanage.
S1.E3 ∙ Episode #1.3
After earning Etienne’s trust, Werner reveals his haunting past and his connection to shortwave 13.10. Meanwhile, Daniel goes to great lengths to deceive the Gestapo.
S1.E4 ∙ Episode #1.4
Hellbent on finding the Sea of Flames, von Rumpel launches his final bid. Amid falling artillery and American forces breaching the city, Werner rushes to save Marie.
