REVIEW: ‘The White Ribbon’

“The White Ribbon (Das weisse Band – Eine deutsche Kindergeschichte)” Rated R • 144 minutes Starring Christian Friedel, Ernst Jacobi, Leonie Benesch, Ulrich Tukur Written And Directed by: Michael Haneke RCC Rating: Worth Full Price On Opening Weekend

“The White Ribbon” opens with the film’s narrator recounting a horse-riding accident injuring the doctor of a small German town. Set just prior to World War One, he tells the story of residents of a small town who are each affected differently by a string of tragedies that, at first, appear unrelated. As the story unfolds, the characters reveal simple truths that lead the viewer to a conclusion so shocking and dismal that it could only be capped with the Assassination of Archduke Ferdinand and the beginning of a World War. It is no surprise that the film’s writer-director Michael Haneke took home the top prize at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival.

This instant classic is not short on the genius use of metaphor. My favorite was a beautiful scene between the town’s Pastor and his young son where they discuss the responsibility of nursing to health a wounded bird found outside. Fascism is a focus of the story, told through the actions of a local land Baron and the varied, but always strict, parenting techniques of the town’s many fathers. I recall stories my Aunt told me of growing up in Germany and the complicated and haunting man who was her father.

There was no musical track. Every actor’s breath, sigh or footstep; pouring water; doors opening; provided the mood, conveyed attitude, and drew the viewer into the souls of the townspeople.

Though the film’s message itself is not twisted, some of the characters are. As absurd as it may feel to read the phrase “slice of life” in describing a film that is far from light-hearted, I do believe one walks away from “The White Ribbon” with a deeper understanding and appreciation for those who experienced what seems to many of us ancient history. If you appreciate a fine art film experience, do not let anyone or anything stop you from seeing “The White Ribbon” on the big screen.