I was delayed in seeing this simply because the holiday season was crazy busy but I’m super glad that its been released back into the theaters for a little while because it was one of those I definitely wanted to experience on the big screen. This movie is 100% Taika Waititi and I am 100% here for it. Not only does the man direct the movie but he stars in it as none other than Adolf Hitler himself – but I’ll stop there and get into the review!
Every character is written so well and every actor cast in the role does their job exquisitely. Newcomer Roman Davis Griffin, the star of the film, plays Jojo Betzler who is a member of the Hitler Youth.. you can see where this is going. He is so genuine in his role and excels with any given character trait – whether it be Nazi sympathizer, innocent, or kindness. His mother is portrayed by Scarlett Johansson who commands the audience whenever she is on screen. Then possibly the most outrageous character in history of cinema is Adolf Hitler played by Waititi. He steals every scene is in and is quite possibly one of the funniest characters I’ve seen as of recent. The rest of the cast is rounded out by Sam Rockwell, Rebel Wilson, and Alfie Allen. When together Rockwell, Wilson, and Allen are very dynamic and super funny. One last person that really impressed me was Thomasin Mckenzie. Mckenzie plays a Jewish girl that Scarlett Johansson’s character is hiding…much to the dismay of her young son. But I especially love all of the moments when Mckenzie and Griffin are alone. I love the friendship that is formed and I adore the chemistry between the two.
Jojo Rabbit is clever. It almost has to be if it’s going to poke fun at the source material it does. It’s a very successful satire in that it does make fun of the situation but also pulls it in and gives the audience moments of seriousness as well which is always welcomed. It never dulls down and gets cheap for laughs which I appreciate. It’s all smart wit. I think one could also say this film is sweet in that it shows that “love story” between the two children. I just really love every moment Johansson is on screen. Her delivery is impeccable which goes hand in hand with the film’s writers and its screenplay.
Also worth noting are the costumes worn throughout the movie and the film’s production and set design.
The film is nominated for several Academy Awards that I think are very worthy but I don’t think the film is Best Picture-esque. But that’s not take away from its goodness. I really loved this movie and I think that it’s worthy of a watch from you!
Rating: 8/10