I went to see a special pre-screening of the film, Bonhoeffer, at the Whale Theatre in Greystones last night and I was not disappointed.
Firstly, as a huge fan of period films, the sets, costumes, and feel of the film were beautifully rich and evocative.
The film comes from critically acclaimed Todd Komarnicki, and is inspired by the life and legacy of theologian and anti-Nazi dissident Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and is certainly worth seeing!
The first premiere this side of the Atlantic was in Ireland and took place in Limerick which – along with parts of Clare & Tipperary – served as the backdrop for the film’s scenic landscape and significant architecture.
The film is a visual treat which takes the viewer from the dreamlike childhood days of little Dietrich, right up to his monuments of bravery, candour, seeming betrayal, grief, and his struggle between despair and hope as he faces the encroaching evil of the Reich.
Bonhoeffer finds himself immersed in the African American gospel music scene, and is inflamed by a desire to spice up the blandness of the German protestant church with the soulfulness and living faith of the black believers he meets in the US.
Irish actor and Kerryman, Muiris Crowley, very convincingly portrays a seemingly soulless Nazi officer.
Speaking to Gript, Crowley said that his best friend being German helped him to develop his accent to convincingly portray the character.
German comedy fans may be surprised to see the famous Flula portraying Bonhoeffer’s brother-in-law who, although a trusted member of the Nazi regime, secretly plots to assassinate the Fuhrer and free captive Jews.
The release of the film (Friday, 7th of March), coincides with the 80th Anniversary year of the end of WWII and Bonhoeffer’s Birthday.
Bonhoeffer brings to life the extraordinary courage and unwavering conviction of a man who stood against the tyranny of the Nazi regime during one of history’s darkest periods. The film delves into Bonhoeffer’s moral and spiritual struggle, portraying his efforts to resist oppression as well as ultimately his sacrifice.
Directed by Todd Kormanicki (Elf, Sully), Cinematography by 2x Academy Award Nominee John Mathieson (Gladiator, Logan, Gladiator II) and featuring a powerful performance by Jonas Dassler (The Golden Glove, Never Look Away), and co-starring 2025 BAFTA EE Rising Star Nominee David Jonsson (Industry, Pray. Alien:Romulus). Bonhoeffer has already garnered critical praise for its compelling storytelling and historical significance.
Audiences can expect a thought-provoking, emotionally charged narrative that sheds light on an extraordinary life of resistance and faith.
Bonhoeffer will be released in select cinemasselect cinemas across Ireland and the UK on March 7th 2025. Tickets will be available for pre-booking soon via major ticketing platforms.
