The ways of the wicked are pitiless. They oppress and persecute and foster fear and evil and desperation. But they can never destroy the freedom and dignity inherent in our souls. Sometimes we need to encounter the greatest evil to recognize our own goodness.
Au revoir les enfants is so much more than an exploration of the Holocaust, or the evil that men can do — even to children. In our own times, with the “law” in the hands of those who relish separating families or imprisoning children, the film has sadly lost its ability to shock. They even sing the same tune, that their brutality is being done in the name of the law, or against “foreigners” or because we lack discipline.
But the goodness that Julien discovers in himself, is a recognition that the divine perseveres — even in the face of the greatest evil. It is no surprise that he desires to take the orders. He is challenged at such an early age. He has every opportunity to indulge his evil inclination - but he also sees so clearly where collaboration leads Joesph’s soul.
But beyond all of that, this film reminded me most of Stand By Me. Do we have ever have friends like we did at 13?
this movie shifted something in me