Anita B. (2014)
9/10
Overall a very enjoyable film!
4 February 2015
Warning: Spoilers
"Anita B." tells the uplifting story of a young Jewish girl' s journey of self discovery after surviving the terror of internment camps during Nazi control of Germany. Left with no other family, Anita goes to live with her Aunt in Czechoslovakia where she discovers her aunt wishes that she leave feelings and stories about Auschwitz in the past. Her family is also hesitant to embrace their Jewish culture for fear of repercussions. During the film Anita experiences love and heartbreak but most importantly learns she is more than the number tattooed on her arm.

It is easy to forget that the effects of the Holocaust lasted long after World War 2 ended. Roberto Faenza tackles the job of directing a film that allows the audience to contemplate the less addressed issues caused by the holocaust, such as the return home of millions of Jews back into communities that were far from ideal. Anita B's story of recovery is beautifully portrayed.The film also manages to depict various ways the Jewish people cope with their losses and degradation of their culture after the Holocaust. The essence of a recovering society and the struggle of one young girl to thrive in a community torn after the war is highlighted magnificently in this film.

The Romance between Eli and Anita shown in the film is far from one dimensional. As Anita's character progresses so does the complication of her and Eli's relationship. The relationship allows us to see the depth of Eli's character. At times we laugh at the young witty Eli who seems to be far from harmful. Other times we hate him and hate how he is treating Anita. We yell at out at her in our minds to leave him already. And there our times still where we simply understand him. We see how the tragic events of his past have affected him and understand why he is the way he is.

The acting in this film is another thing that deserves high praise. Eline Powell does a wondrous job portraying Anita. Powell shows incredible character development as Anita is reintegrated into society. The actress's allows the viewer to relate and empathize with the character, we as an audience are able to feel Anita's sense of imprisonment when she is forced to remain within the boundaries of her house, feel her pain when she realizes her love is not pure and feel her hopefulness when she is finally given a chance to start fresh.

Overall I highly recommend that you go see this film. Anita B. is a story of romance, a story of loss and a story of survival. It leaves us with an uplifting message to find our own inner strength just as Anita did. The movie pushes us to recognize our ability to determine our own future. It's departing remarks remind us that you and you alone are responsible for accomplishing your dreams.
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