Film Review: ‘Bonhoeffer’

Written by: Celita Diaz-Perillo (11/21/24)

The historical drama film Bonhoeffer, releasing November 22, 2024, is the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer; an anti-Nazi German Lutheran pastor, theologian, and author of many books and theological writings. He was a pacifist who came to see the injustices and cruelty of the Nazi regime as contrary to the Bible’s teachings. He began to actively work against the Nazis to save lives and to share the truth of God’s Word to the blind, confused, lazy, hypocritical individuals in the church.

His goal was to encourage the body of Christ to hold onto the statutes and commandments established in the written Word of God and to not be swayed by the new system of faith being established at that time which skewed the sovereignty and deity of Christ, the Father, and the Holy Spirit. Essentially, Hitler proclaimed himself god.

The overall film is a journey of growth in the life of Bonhoeffer. There is a shifting back and forth between present day and flashbacks. It portrays the complicated nuances of Bonhoeffer’s life and family as well as the citizens of Germany as they were living the normal everyday lives – in universities, working, and being together with their families. This shows how so many things changed under the rule of the Third Reich.

Liberties and freedoms were taken away. Bullying, aggressive behaviors, intolerance, persecutions and martyrdom were on the rise – against the Jews, against anyone who was physically or mentally different, against anyone who had different life views or faith views, and against those attempting to stand for integrity and what was right, good, just and holy.

We get a behind-the-scenes perspective of discussions that may have occurred within the Bonhoeffer family. As we know, what affects us as individuals also affects others who love us and are around us. There is collateral damage and that can affect parents, siblings, friends, wives or girlfriends and children. It can also mean that we can be the cause for change in others as well.

Standing in the face of adversity is easy when it is just words, but the true test is when we are facing those hardships and moments of courage personally, in our everyday lives.

Many quotable phrases were shared, and all-in-all Bonhoeffer was a film that I feel can still be a benefit to anyone above 12 years old. Especially since, in this day and age, most 12-year-olds are watching all sorts of nonsensical violence. At least this has, and serves, a purpose. Each family must decide for themselves if this film is okay for their young people, teens, tweens, etc..

We are encouraged, by way of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s own questions, to establish where we stand on issues of the world and current events. What are our own morals or values? What do we stand for? Are our morals and values in line with scripture (especially those who call themselves followers of Jesus)? Also, what are we willing to do as soldiers of Christ to work for His kingdom?

In the end, just before the war ended, Dietrich Bonhoeffer was hanged for his beliefs and his efforts, but he had finally found peace with his life, his decisions, and his end.

Overall, Bonhoeffer is a film that pricks and prompts us to truly live our lives for Jesus; wholeheartedly surrendered, obedient, and boldly. To be courageous!

There is some talk online about how some aspects of the film are not true or misrepresented so we can assume that some creative license or liberties were taken. For that reason, the film cannot be considered exclusively biographical, but it is still a tool that can encourage, teach, convict, and touch us.

I do suggest parental guidance and conversations to aid young people through some of the tough situations. Some topics can be used as conversation starters and educational opportunities.

We must remember the past, so it does not repeat itself. God help us, may we stand firm and say, never again!

Take note that Bonhoeffer himself is seen smoking and drinking in different scenes of the film. Most of the scenes are when he was in the beginning stage of his journey to really seeking and pursuing the Lord. But even later, in moments of strain, he is occasionally portrayed with a cigarette in hand.

Themes of bullying, vengeance, inappropriate coping methods (drinking and smoking), violence against fellow man, hanging, shooting/guns, forgiveness, doubt, personal growth, perseverance in the face of great discouragement and hardships are present. Basically real-to-life situations.

The phrase “son of a b—-” is said by one of the Nazi solders against Dietrich Bonhoeffer. No other choice words were heard. But it was a realistic moment, a realistic situation.

3.5/5

KBTV FEATURE INTERVIEW WITH BONHOEFFER DIRECTOR, TODD KOMARNICKI