Introduction
“White Bird: A Wonder Story” (2023) extends the universe of the much-beloved Wonder (2017), bringing a poignant tale of human kindness, bravery, and empathy during the darkest days of World War II. Directed by Marc Forster and based on the graphic novel by R.J. Palacio, White Bird shifts the focus from the previous film’s protagonist, Auggie Pullman, to the grandmother of his bully, Julian, as she recounts her harrowing experiences in Nazi-occupied France.
In this review, we’ll analyze the film’s plot, characters, cinematography, themes, and direction, while offering a comparison with similar movies. By the end, we’ll evaluate whether this film is worth your time and attention.
Plot Overview
At the heart of White Bird is the story of Sara Blum, a young Jewish girl living in Nazi-occupied France. After her family is rounded up, Sara goes into hiding with the help of Julien Beaumier, a classmate who suffers from polio. Julien’s family risks everything to protect Sara, providing a touching narrative about the resilience of the human spirit and the quiet acts of heroism that arise in times of crisis.
This storyline is framed by the present-day experiences of Julian (Bryce Gheisar), who, after being expelled from school for bullying Auggie, is struggling to adapt to a new school. His grandmother, Sara (Helen Mirren), visits him and shares her past, hoping to inspire Julian to understand the importance of kindness, courage, and standing up against injustice.
Character Analysis
The characters in White Bird are central to its emotional core, offering a contrast between past and present. Sara, played brilliantly by Ariella Glaser, embodies strength and vulnerability as a young girl trying to survive the horrors of the Holocaust. Glaser brings a nuanced performance, making her character relatable even in the most extraordinary circumstances.
Julien, portrayed by Orlando Schwerdt, is another key character whose physical disability does not hinder his bravery. His kindness and the bond he forms with Sara challenge societal norms of the time, making him an unsung hero in the narrative.
Julian’s character arc is also worth noting. While he starts off as a bully in Wonder, his grandmother’s story gives him a chance at redemption. Helen Mirren’s performance as Sara’s older self is powerful, anchoring the film with her warmth and wisdom.
Visuals and Cinematography
Visually, White Bird is stunning, with cinematography that blends harsh realism with moments of whimsical fantasy. The scenes of Nazi-occupied France are beautifully crafted by cinematographer Matthias Koenigswieser, who captures both the bleakness of war and the resilience of those who fought through it. The contrast between the cold, oppressive landscapes and the vibrant warmth of Sara’s memories creates an emotional depth that draws viewers into the story.
A standout feature is the use of color symbolism. The titular white bird, representing hope and freedom, appears throughout the film as a visual motif. The filmmakers also use bright hues in fantasy sequences where the children escape their harsh realities, offering moments of lightness amidst the tension.
However, one of the film’s downfalls is its overly clean production design. While the settings are picturesque, they sometimes feel too polished for a story about survival during wartime. The streets, houses, and even the characters’ clothing often lack the gritty realism that one might expect from a Holocaust drama.
Themes and Messages
At its core, White Bird is a film about kindness, empathy, and the courage to stand up against oppression. The story echoes the themes of Wonder, reminding viewers that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Sara’s tale of survival is not just about her own perseverance but about the bravery of those who risked their lives to help her.
The film also touches on themes of redemption, as Julian’s character grapples with his own past cruelty. His grandmother’s story teaches him that empathy is a choice, and that true strength lies in protecting those who cannot protect themselves.
Comparison with Similar Films
White Bird inevitably invites comparisons to films like The Diary of Anne Frank and Jojo Rabbit, both of which explore themes of survival and humanity during the Holocaust. However, where White Bird differs is in its focus on young adult audiences, offering a more sanitized view of the atrocities.
While Jojo Rabbit blends dark humor with tragedy, White Bird maintains a more sentimental tone throughout. Its message is straightforward and lacks the nuanced layers found in other Holocaust dramas, making it more accessible to a younger demographic but perhaps less impactful for older viewers.
Direction and Execution
Marc Forster’s direction in White Bird balances the weight of historical trauma with a sense of hopefulness. Known for films like The Kite Runner and Finding Neverland, Forster brings his signature blend of emotional storytelling and visual flair to this project. The pacing is steady, though at times the film feels overly melodramatic, especially in its third act.
One critique is the film’s tendency to simplify the narrative for the sake of its younger audience. While this makes the film more digestible, it risks glossing over the complexities of the historical events it depicts.
Final Verdict
Overall, White Bird is a heartfelt, visually captivating film that carries a meaningful message about kindness and bravery. Though it may not delve as deeply into the historical realities of the Holocaust as other films, its accessible approach makes it an excellent entry point for younger audiences to engage with these themes.
The performances, especially by Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, and Helen Mirren, elevate the film, while the stunning cinematography adds a layer of emotional depth. While it may not satisfy viewers looking for a more complex or gritty portrayal of history, it succeeds in delivering a touching, inspiring story.
Recommendation
For those who enjoyed Wonder or are looking for a family-friendly film with a strong moral message, White Bird is a solid recommendation. Its themes of empathy, kindness, and courage are timeless and resonate deeply, particularly in today’s world.
If you’re ready to be inspired by the power of kindness and courage, don’t miss White Bird. You can find out where to watch it here or explore more top-rated films on platforms like Gomovies. Watch the trailer for White Bird on YouTube to get a glimpse of this touching story.
