Bonhoeffer (2003) Reviews

Bonhoeffer (2003)
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Culled from an array of archival footage, on-location shooting, dramatic narration, and interviews with family, friends, and historians, the documentary Bonhoeffer strives to recreate the life of the theologian who openly railed against Hitler's growing stronghold on Germany and beyond in the years leading up to World War II. A devout Christian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer organized the Confessing Church in the early '30s, urging his following to join forces with the Jews in fighting the Third Reich. Bonhoeffer's efforts reached their zenith when he and others mounted assassination attempts on the Führer. Klaus Maria Brandauer gives voice to many of Bonhoeffer's writings, and Desmond Tutu and John de Gruchy are among the film's interviewees. After being rejected from the 2003 Sundance Film Festival, Bonhoeffer was screened at local churches in and around Park City, attracting attention from distributors, and eventually, a limited U.S. release in the summer of 2003. ~ Michael Hastings, Rovi

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Starring:
Martin DoblmeierKlaus Maria Brandauer, (more)
Director(s):
Martin Doblmeier
Format(s):
DVD
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Average Ratings

(12 member reviews)  


Member Reviews


Alina A.

What a great film! A glimpse into a very personal story of struggle in a much talked about period. I had not seen much of the "Hitler" file footage shown in this film, nor was I aware of the "Christian" participation in the Holocaust; so this was a real eye opener for me. It would be a great conversation starter for those defining what "right" and "wrong" is and Who should be the measure.

Yes   |   No


Miroslaw S.

I absolutely LOVE this documentary. I am (like the other reviewer) a Christian. I hit "bottom" before pleading to the Lord for help. That being said, this is the Spirit of Christ that all christians are called to, that of Bonhoeffer. What a truly incredible man. Bonhoeffer is to Nazi Germany as the anti-war Christians during the Roman Crusades. Its abundantly clear which side is truly Christ's Body. But are there limits to pacifism? Is there a Divine line between Good and Evil, and can doing wrong to bring out the Good be Just? This film answered that for me and no doubt for everyone else who has seen it (or will). Truly a phenomenal documentary and worth watching/passing the word on it/buying it...etc. JUST WATCH IT!!

Yes   |   No


Carolyn M.

Bonhoeffer has long been one of my personal heroes, and to see the interviews with those closest to him was amazing. Since the number of first sources for the WWII era is dwindling, it is priceless to have these voices and personalities documented. The film is equally meaningful for people with or without previous knowledge of Bonhoeffer and his courage.

Yes   |   No


Sally F.

I was interested in learning something about a man who I knew nothing of except that he was a theologian who opposed the Nazis. This documentary, with interviews with some of his contemporaries along with archival footage and lots of photos of Bonhoffer and others in his life, delivered. Bonhoffer was, obviously, a brilliant man, but the doc did not overwhelm you with his views and beliefs. What it did was give you the essence of his views as they evolved out of his schooling and life experiences. This is as it should be in a video presentation. That having been said, there was a nice feature on the CD where you could review these kernels of thought, if you wanted.

Yes   |   No


Deborah S.

While this movie is a typical documentary in style, the story has so much innate drama that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. This man was one of the courageous Germans who resisted the Third Reich and paid for it with his life. The documentary only hit the "high spots" and created a desire to know more about this man. I highly recommend this movie.

Yes   |   No


Chris N.

An inspiring and informative portrait of one man's attempt to translate his faith into action during one of the most supremely challenging periods of world history.

Yes   |   No


Gregory J.

I was moved by this documentary. Bonhoeffer's faith in God was deep and he sincerely cared for people.

Yes   |   No


Richard W.

This gives good insight into Bonhoeffer's background and the events that formed much of his life.

Yes   |   No


Alexander M.

I'm an Episcopal priest, and found this documentary worth using for an adult education discussion. I wrestle with celebrating his life because while his understanding of the Faith led him to support the Resistance, I am not convinced that God ever calls us to murder. In a non-dogmatic Christian discussion group, this could be a fascinating starter.

Yes   |   No


Mim M.

a good documentary; inspiring.

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

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    Member Reviews
     
    Alina A.

    What a great film! A glimpse into a very personal story of struggle in a much talked about period. I had not seen much of the "Hitler" file footage shown in this film, nor was I aware of the "Christian" participation in the Holocaust; so this was a real eye opener for me. It would be a great conversation starter for those defining what "right" and "wrong" is and Who should be the measure.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Miroslaw S.

    I absolutely LOVE this documentary. I am (like the other reviewer) a Christian. I hit "bottom" before pleading to the Lord for help. That being said, this is the Spirit of Christ that all christians are called to, that of Bonhoeffer. What a truly incredible man. Bonhoeffer is to Nazi Germany as the anti-war Christians during the Roman Crusades. Its abundantly clear which side is truly Christ's Body. But are there limits to pacifism? Is there a Divine line between Good and Evil, and can doing wrong to bring out the Good be Just? This film answered that for me and no doubt for everyone else who has seen it (or will). Truly a phenomenal documentary and worth watching/passing the word on it/buying it...etc. JUST WATCH IT!!

    Yes   |   No

     
    Carolyn M.

    Bonhoeffer has long been one of my personal heroes, and to see the interviews with those closest to him was amazing. Since the number of first sources for the WWII era is dwindling, it is priceless to have these voices and personalities documented. The film is equally meaningful for people with or without previous knowledge of Bonhoeffer and his courage.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Read All 12 Reviews