Jojo Rabbit: movie review


True to one of my resolutions, I decided to make some time to catch up on some good and meaningful movies. Having received 2 Golden Globe nominations, Jojo Rabbit piqued my interest.


Movies or books set around the World war 2 era always manages to tug the strings of my heart. Be it 'The boy in the striped pajamas' or the latest Taika Waititi's flick 'Jojo Rabbit.' 

Based on the book 'Caging Skies' Jojo Rabbit explores the story of a boy in Hitler's army who discovers a jewish girl named Elsa,being hidden by his mother, in his attic. Jojo's father is fighting a war and has been missing from their lives for last 2 years. His sister succumbs to the influenza virus. 

Jojo derives the name rabbit from an incident at the army camp. In order to prove his zest to kill, the higher officials challenge him to kill a rabbit by placing it in its hands. Jojo refuses and runs away only to be mocked as Jojo Rabbit. In the meantime, Jojo spots his mother spreading the message of 'Free Germany'. 

Jojo is also aided by his imaginary friend Adolf Hitler. Together they confront his nationalism which is coupled with Fanaticism.  

Set in Nazi germany, the movie takes us back to an era where young boys were put under rigorous regimes to serve Hitler's army. Amidst the web of hatred and fanaticism, there also existed a slight ray of hope in the form of humanity. This is especially seen in a couple of scenes. 

The scene where Jojo holds the rabbit tenderly in his arms while the furry creature trembles with fear, makes your heart go out to the boy. Clearly the ten year old isn't the cold blooded killer that he claims or yearns to be. Another instance is during the inspection scene where an officer covers up for Elsa when she is asked to show her papers. 

The endearing part of the film is the unlikely camaraderie that is formed between Elsa and Jojo. The resentment towards one another gradually transforms into love and respect. 

Themes of loneliness and freedom are touched upon here. Jojo's imaginary friend is a manifestation of his loneliness, especially when he longs for his father and is shattered to see his mother's corpse hanging amidst those who campaigned for 'Free Germany'. 

"What's the first thing that you will do when you are free?" Jojo asked Elsa. 

"Dance," she replies in a matter of fact manner. 

Endearing and poignant, Jojo Rabbit evokes a myriad of feelings in the viewer. From smiling at a few scenes to witnessing the gravity of the war infested country, Jojo Rabbit captures the emotions in a subtle yet powerful manner. 

Well directed with some great performances, Jojo Rabbit is a great watch. 

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