3. Shows how one person's courage can make a difference
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Eventually, Bonhoeffer joins the plot to assassinate Hitler while resisting his pacifist urges to stop the Nazi madman. Bonhoeffer explains that while Hitler was not the first evil leader in world history, “he is the first person I can stop.”
Of course, the plot failed and Hitler's evil march continued. Hitler lived longer than Bonhoeffer, but by only three weeks. (In the film's final moments, Bonhoeffer turns down the opportunity to escape prison, believing it would endanger his wife and children.)
It's worth asking why we still remember Bonhoeffer. Because he showed moral courage in the face of overwhelming evil. He spoke up while the others remained silent. When others were indifferent, he changed his mind. He defended the innocent when others looked away. He was even willing to die when others chose self-preservation.
Six months after the war, the Lutheran Church in Germany issued a statement of repentance in which it acknowledged that “infinite evil has been done through us.” The names of the vile Christian leaders who survived are known only to a few historians. But the name of the man who bravely stood up against injustice and died as a martyr is remembered by millions of people around the world.
bonhoeffer ” is a fascinating film with some surprises and plenty of inspiration. Contains mild language (details below) and mild violence. (If you're interested, the hanging takes place off-screen, but you can hear the sound.)
It's one of the most moving movies of the year.
entertainment rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Family friendly rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Rated PG-13 for violent content, thematic elements, and some smoking. Language details: h-ll (1), d–n (1), SOB (1).
Discussion Questions: Why do you think the German church remained silent in the face of evil? What are some injustices and wrongs in our society that people are unaware of or do not acknowledge? What lessons can we learn from Bonhoeffer's life? Do you agree with his attempt to assassinate Hitler? (Why or why not?)
Photo credit: ©angel studio
