Rating: –★★★★1/2
MOVIE INFO
Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Original Language: English
Director: James Hawes
Producer: Joanna Laurie, Iain Canning, Emile Sherman, Guy Heeley
Writer: Lucinda Coxon, Nick Drake
One Life Review: In 1988, Nicholas Winton’s extraordinary tale, often likened to that of ‘The British Schindler,’ was unveiled during an appearance on the BBC’s That’s Life. Today, this remarkable narrative graces the silver screen in a brilliant British biopic featuring the celebrated Sir Anthony Hopkins.
Imagine 1938, a time when desperate Jews sought escape. Winton, a British stockbroker and humanitarian, set out on a mission to Prague. He established the British Committee for Refugees from Czechoslovakia and, with the aid of an exceptional team, even including his own mother, orchestrated the transport of Jewish children from Prague to England. Time was against them, with the imminent Nazi invasion threatening the fate of these innocent lives. Winton’s resolve to rescue as many children as possible was unwavering, though his mother’s sobering reminder lingered, “You must know that we can’t save them all.”
Against all odds, Winton managed to rescue 669 Jewish children, providing them refuge from Hitler’s chilling vision of a master race. His humanitarian efforts earned him a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2003.
This poignant biopic showcases phenomenal performances from Sir Anthony Hopkins and Johnny Flynn, portraying Winton at different life stages. Helena Bonham Carter’s portrayal of young Winton’s mother is notably exceptional. Hopkins, in yet another career-defining role, is inseparable from the character, making it almost inconceivable to envision anyone else in the role.
The film delves deeply into Winton’s perilous missions and the harrowing experiences endured by the rescued children in refugee camps. Through flashbacks, the audience is transported to Winton’s early years, where he fought relentlessly for the survival of these young lives. Shockingly, the American president at the time refused to offer any assistance.
With breathtaking cinematography and top-tier production values, this film stands out as one of the finest to emerge from Britain in recent years. However, it’s an emotional rollercoaster, likely to stir tears. The film’s powerful message reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there are individuals dedicated to saving the innocent. “One Life” serves as a compelling cautionary tale, challenging us to reflect on whether humanity has truly absorbed the lessons of one of history’s darkest chapters. It also raises the pressing question of whether senseless torment against specific religious groups can ever be eradicated.
Winton’s sobering words during a radio interview shortly before his passing in 2015 still echo today: “I don’t think we’ve learned anything from the past. The world today is in a more dangerous situation than it has ever been.”
This heartrending narrative is a testament to the enduring strength of compassion and courage, a tribute to Nicholas Winton’s heroic legacy that continues to ignite inspiration.
