One Life (2023) User Reviews

The World Needs More Stories Like This

[Lomax343 · 8/10 · 29 December 2023]

Turn on the news and what do you see? Man's inhumanity to man. Ukraine, Gaza etc etc. It's enough to make you lose faith in the human race - or it would be were it not for the occasional story of humanity at its best.

In Czechoslovakia in 1938-9, a small group of people (Nicholas Winton is the best known as he was the last survivor of that group) are appalled by the plight of mainly Jewish refugees, and resolve to do something. Despite opposition from governments (German, Dutch, British and American) they manage to evacuate 669 children and provide them with foster families in the UK, where many of their descendants live to this day. A further 250 children were on a train that was scheduled to leave on the day war was declared. Two of them were still alive at the war's end.

Then the story was forgotten for more than forty years, until at last Nicholas Winton was given the recognition he deserved (not the least astonishing part of the story is that Robert Maxwell did one decent thing in his life).

The film is in two parts; the younger Winton being played by Johnny Flynn, the older by Anthony Hopkins. Both give stand-out performances. Also excellent is Helena Bonham Carter as Winton's mother. The scene where she tells a bureaucrat what she thinks of him is priceless.

But the most important aspect of the film is its message. Human kindness is still a force in the world. Everyone can make a difference. No good deed, be it great or small, is ever wasted.

If only governments were run by people like Nicholas Winton.

Thank god for people like Nicolas Winton.

[garethcrook · 9/10 · 23 February 2024]

I've been on a bit of a spree of Jewish themed films of late, trying to inject a bit of hope in between the inevitable darkness. Going from Shoah to Yentl and The Zone of Interest to One Life, which I think will likely bridge the horror with some lasting positivity... hopefully. I say this, as like many, I'm aware of Nicolas Winton from his appearance on That's Life! A stunning piece of television that will stick with anyone who remembers it being broadcast. I was very young though and I'm sure there's more to the story than I recall. Winton was a man who saw what the Nazis were up to, whilst many were covering their eyes and was moved to do something. That something was the Kindertransport or more accurately an extension of it. One Life is based on his true story and it doesn't shy on the details. We first meet an older Nicolas (Anthony Hopkins), doddering perhaps, slowing down a little but still motivated to help. Haunted by his past. You don't unsee the things he's seen. As he stares into a darkened window, we drift back to the 30s, where he's played by Johnny Flynn, trying to convince his mother (Helena Bonham Carter) that it's a good idea for him to travel to Czechoslovakia to help the refugees from the advancing Nazis. Flynn not only portrays Winton magnificently, he also feels perfectly in step with Hopkins. He's a bit of a chameleon. Nicolas though isn't on the surface. He's a well to do stockbroker. A desk man. Head in paperwork type. The harsh Prague winter is not what he was prepared for, but he learns quickly that without help, these displaced people have been forgotten by the system. The British government is not helping Czechoslovakians. When Nicolas is quizzed as to his motives, what skin he has in the game. His response is gripping. Heartfelt, unwavering, determined and spine tingling. The scenes of people saying goodbye at train stations, children with numbers on cardboard around their necks are intercut with the bureaucracy that Nicolas, friends and his mother navigate with steely determination as a score of thick string and piano laden melancholy fills the score. It's this drive/melancholy that defines Nicolas. The drive is his nature, the melancholy what he's left with when there's time think. It's this time that dictates older Nicolas's life. He realises there's sadly still a lesson to be learnt. This timeline isn't perhaps as fraught and terrifying, but it's what lead to that TV moment, this film and Anthony Hopkins reducing me to tears. The pace is kept up by jumping between Hopkins and Flynn in the eras of his life, where although some things have changed, the focus hasn't. It's not an easy watch, amazing as it is what they're doing, as Babi Winton (Bonham Carter) says "Nicky, you must know you can't save them all". What a world we live in. Where this happened and still the danger persists. Thank god for people like Nicolas Winton. A magnificent story brought about by the evil that people are capable of.

Heartbreaking & Heartwarming

[GB65 · 9/10 · 1 January 2024]

I rarely concern myself with the opinions of others, especially professional critics, but some of the negative reviews I've read about this are churlish to say the least. I think one of the big positives of this film is that it just tells the story. Most of us in UK probably know the story of Sir Nicholas Winton and how he organised the transport of 669 Czech Jewish children to relative safety in the UK in the face of the Nazi onslaught in the Sudetenland and Czechoslovakia. Despite what some suggest, it clearly shows that this is a team effort led by Winton's persistence and determination; it does not make him out to be the sole hero. However, as important as the evacuations is the story about how it came into the British consciousness via the quirky 1970s BBC TV show, 'That's Life.' It truly is something that needed to be told, then and now, and is done so in a suitably serious nut heartwarming manner. Do go and see it and do be prepared for the final scenes.

Exceptional piece of work

[karlmartin-47352 · 10/10 · 1 January 2024]

This is truly an exceptional piece of work. Having seen the trailer it could've easily been made to look and feel quite tacky but I was genuinely surprised and extremely impressed by what has been accomplished. Every step of the production was presented exactly as you would want from a time period piece and I don't recall seeing any cgi at all and certainly none which could've potentially shattered the illusion. The commitment of the actors, both past and present versions were magnificent and made you completely believe their situations. The story is an exceptional one and I'm glad that it has been told in exactly the way it was & it absolutely destroyed me & I don't think there was a dry eye left from anyone in the cinema screening that I watched it in. Anything which gives me the immediate emotional reaction that this did means that it deserves a full 5 stars.

A captivating movie.

[Sleepin_Dragon · 10/10 · 29 February 2024]

The true story of Sir Nicholas Winton, who was responsible for evacuating over 600 children from Czechoslovakia, which was on the verge of Nazi invasion.

This is a truly outstanding film, one of the best I've seen in a while, for my shame I had no idea if Nicholas Winton's story until this film, it promoted me to dig deeper, what a fascinating, brave man.

Beautifully produced, and not just the visuals, of course it looked amazing, but the tone and feel of the movie was perfect. At times I honestly felt like I was watching something by Stephen Poliakoff, someone who truly does know how to move the viewers.

BBC films, proof that The BBC still has the ability to deliver incredible quality, when it focuses on actual storytelling, this was like something made from yesteryear.

Sir Anthony Hopkins delivers yet another masterclass, his scenes at the That's Life studio were incredible, Hopkins was matched by an equally captivating performance from Johnny Flynn, fabulous.

Intensely moving, I saw many tears at the cinema, a very powerful story, a true act of selfless bravery.

Wonderful.

10/10.

Uncovering a hidden hero

[steveinadelaide · 7/10 · 17 December 2023]

Set against the backdrop of the rising Nazi threat in 1938, "One Life" tells the true story of Nicholas Winton, a young British stockbroker who embarks on a daring mission. Driven by a sense of humanity, Winton orchestrates the Kindertransport, rescuing hundreds of Jewish children from Czechoslovakia and bringing them to safety in Britain. The film weaves through time, showcasing the immediate impact of Winton's actions on the rescued children as well as the decades of silence that followed as Winton kept his heroic deeds under wraps. (Bard AI)

One Life is an amazing story that I certainly had never heard about before. It's disappointing that it is told in such a conventional style. The story of Nicholas Winton follows a somewhat predictable trajectory, with occasional tropes we have seen in many wartime dramas. Despite this, Anthony Hopkins, who plays the older Nicholas Winton, and Helena Bonham Carter, who plays Babette Winton, both put in moving, nuanced performances that bring Winton's story alive.

As we know from other wartime stories, the power of individual action in the face of incredible adversity is staggering. The fear and desperation of the child refugees is effectively portrayed, along with heartwarming moments of hope and resilience. In a story like this, the moral ambiguities, the deep resources of courage, and the profound weight of responsibility gave me plenty to think about even after the credits rolled.

There were several things that detracted from the quality of the film. Pacing was a bit of a problem. Some parts of the story felt rushed, and other parts could have done with some tighter editing. The cinematography, while providing an evocative backdrop for the story, never really had the emotional weight needed for this sort of story. Some scenes bordered on being excessively sentimental, which, at times, diminished the authenticity of the movie. Some supporting characters could have done with some deeper development and backstories, and there needed to be a more balanced presentation of the story's two timelines so we could better understand the young and older versions of Winton.

While One Life isn't groundbreaking, it is well made and is a valuable reminder and tribute to an extraordinary man of courage. The strengths outweigh the flaws, making it worthwhile to watch for all ages (except very young children because of the mature themes). And Winton's story makes us question whether heroism is more about big deeds or small acts of bravery. One day, each of us may be called on to be heroic, and One Life provides us with an opportunity to think about how we might choose to act in those situations. Will we have the courage to help out in the small ways that can make a big difference?

A simple human interest story that carries itself as humbly as its lead subject

[MrDHWong · 8/10 · 24 December 2023]

"One Life" is a biographical drama film based on the non-fiction book "If It's Not Impossible... The Life of Sir Nicholas Winton" by Barbara Winton. Directed by James Hawes and starring Anthony Hopkins in the lead role, it is a simple human interest story that carries itself as humbly as its lead subject.

In 1938, British stockbroker Nicholas "Nicky" Winton (Anthony Hopkins) visits Czechoslovakia to assist with matters regarding the Jewish population. While there, Nicky works hard to rescue large numbers of children to be transported back to England before the Nazis can have them sent to concentration camps. Throughout the rest of his life, Nicky is encouraged by his family to make his deeds known to the public, but he instead chooses to keep them to himself. In 1988, Nicky's wife discovers a scrapbook in their attic detailing all of the children and their families he helped save, and subsequently sends it to the media. As a result of this, Nicky's heroism receives wider acknowledgment, but is he prepared for all the attention he could garner from this?

Thanks to the efforts of one man in particular, there are over 6,000 people in the world who are alive today because of his actions. That man in question is Nicholas Winton, a stockbroker who risked his life to rescue 669 children from becoming victims of the Holocaust, earning him the nickname "The British Schindler". However, it wasn't until half a century later that Nicholas's humanitarian work was made known to the public, when the media caught wind of his good deeds and reached out to the children and the relatives of those he saved. In the 2023 film "One Life", we are presented with a straightforward, respectful look at Nicholas's life in a way I am sure he would most likely approve.

The film is presented to us in a fairly conventional manner, which is fine as this can be seen as a reflection of Nicholas himself, who was a relatively humble man. When we are first introduced to Nicholas, he is an elderly man in the late 1980s sifting through papers he chooses to keep hidden away from his family. Immediately afterwards, the film flashes back to 1938 where we see a twenty-something Nicholas arriving in Czechoslovakia to undertake work among the local Jewish community. It is here that Nicholas meets some of the Jewish children, with whom he forms a friendly, albeit brief bond with when he shares his chocolate bar with a select few. From here, Nicholas becomes inspired to focus his efforts on helping these children, even if it comes at the risk of attracting attention from the advancing Nazi threat.

James Hawes's direction is effective at conveying Nicholas's emotional state whenever the film needs to showcase it. For instance, in one scene where we see Nicholas browsing through his scrapbook, all of the photographs and descriptions of the children are seen reflected in his glasses. The camera then zooms in on his face to show how much emotion he is filled with as he recollects all of the youths he saved and, rather tragically, the ones he could not. We see how conflicted Nicholas is in his reminiscing, as while it is true he managed to rescue so many children, he cannot escape the guilt of the ones who were far less fortunate. I was pleased to see that the film tackled this angle to Nicholas as a person as it would have been easy to only examine the positive aspects of his deeds while completely disregarding the negative. The fact of the matter is that Nicholas has always had to deal with this emotional burden, and making it public knowledge may not be what he needs to overcome his feelings of self-doubt.

As the lead character, Anthony Hopkins once again proves that he's one of the best actors currently working today as he perfectly depicts the elderly Nicholas throughout all of his emotional states. Most of the time, it isn't through Hopkins's line delivery or his reaction to things, but through his body language that helps his performance leave the most impression. Aside from the aforementioned scene with the scrapbook, I also really liked this one part where Nicholas is sitting quietly in a chair by his pool overcome with the emotion of reminiscing about what he did fifty years earlier. Here, he simply sits there staring off into the distance fighting back tears until his wife arrives to comfort him. In the hands of a lesser actor, this scene may have been forgettable but Hopkins shows his ability to act using his body rather than simply through words during this scene, which gives a moment like this considerably more impact than it should.

However, this is clearly a one man show, and while that does make sense in the long run, it seems like kind of a waste to include all these other notable actors and do very little with them. Helena Bonham Carter plays the young Nicholas's mother, who essentially taught him the selfless value of doing good deeds for the sake of others. Unfortunately, she is only in the film for about five minutes and these are exclusively during the flashback scenes. Similarly, Jonathan Pryce appears as the older version of one of the people whom Nicholas worked with to rescue the children. His screen time is even less than Carter's and didn't really add anything particularly important to the film. Regardless, I still appreciate that all of these actors each wanted to be part of a film that helps preserve the legacy of someone important like Nicholas Winton.

Although the film can hardly be considered groundbreaking from a creative viewpoint, "One Life" still has moments of poignancy that are well worth your time. The subject matter alone warrants at least one viewing, as it is rare to hear about such great deeds being enacted by an uncommonly humble individual. In a world full of fake charitable people who only do nice deeds to stroke their egos, it's refreshing to know that there are people out there like Nicholas Winton who choose to do the right thing out of the kindness of their hearts. The world definitely needs more people like that, and if you can't find someone like that, be someone like that.

I rate it 8/10.

One Life, Much Strife

[reelreviewsandrecommendations · 6/10 · 8 January 2024]

Nicholas Winton is an octogenarian who has devoted much of his life to humanitarian efforts. After his wife goes on a holiday, he is left alone with his memories. As a young man in the late 1930's, Winton travelled to Prague, where the desperate situation of the Jewish children there moved him deeply. Determined to help them escape the advancing Nazi's clutches, he devised a plan to transport hundreds to England. Against all odds, Winton and his associates persevere- but will the public ever know of his bravery?

James Hawes' 'One Life' is an uneven drama retelling this fascinating true story. The film is divided into two parallel narratives: one following the older Winton in the 1980's, the other focusing on his younger days in Prague. The former is engaging and full of pathos, thanks to Anthony Hopkins' thoughtful, nuanced performance. He carries the film squarely on his shoulders, subtly showing Winton's vulnerability and inner turmoil. As he recalls his past, the emotional impact is devastating, Hopkins masterfully displaying the torment the man is going through. As he did in 'King Lear' and 'The Father', Hopkins creates a compelling, sympathetic person, that one cannot help but root for.

The flashback sequences, however, are oddly underwhelming, despite the dramatic potential of the historical events. In contrast to the 1980's narrative, Nick Drake and Lucinda Coxon's screenplay eschews subtlety and depth, and their dialogue is often stilted and expository, telling rather than showing the characters' emotions and conflicts. Moreover, the film fails to explore the complex moral dilemmas and psychological effects of Winton's mission. Unlike 'Schindler's List', which depicts the horrors of the Holocaust and the guilt of the survivors in an intelligent and respectful way, Hawes's film glosses over the fate of the children who were not saved and the impact of Winton's mission.

Nor do we learn much about Winton himself. Why was he motivated to save the children? He claims he is but an ordinary man, though we never learn what compelled him to attempt the extraordinary. Winton's life was truly remarkable, and to call him a hero is putting it mildly. However, Hawes is just going through the motions, telling his tale without verve or impact. While the scenes involving Winton in the 1980's are powerful and compelling- due entirely to Hopkins- the film as a whole disappoints.

Furthermore, it suffers from a lack of visual flair and originality. Zac Nicholson's cinematography is bland and conventional, with dull compositions that lack impact. Lucia Zucchetti's editing is erratic and disjointed, failing to create a good pace for proceedings. The flashback sequences are often interrupted by abrupt cuts to the present, disrupting the flow and tension of the story. The film wastes the opportunity to showcase the contrast between Prague and London, using costumes and props that look similar and drab. Additionally, Volker Bertelmann's muted score is ineffective, hindering the dramatic impact of scenes rather than complementing them.

Johnny Flynn is dull and flat as the young Winton, lacking any charisma or courage; though Drake and Coxon's dialogue didn't help matters. Conversely, Helena Bonham Carter is excellent as his mother, though deserving of more screen time and attention. Her role could have provided more insight into Winton's personality and motivation, but the movie neglects to explore their relationship. Romola Garai does strong work as Doreen, convincingly portraying her determination to save the children.

Alex Sharp also impresses as Winton's associate Trevor, adding some much-needed energy. Jonathan Pryce brings a quiet power to his all too brief scene with the elder Winton, creating a poignant moment. The children involved all give emotive, often devastating performances, compounding the drama of the venture; while Lena Olin is terrific as Grete, Winton's wife, sharing a fine chemistry with Hopkins. In addition, Marthe Keller shines as Betty Maxwell, in another short but memorable scene.

In conclusion, despite the potential for a rich dramatic piece about the horrors of war and the bravery of Nicholas Winton, 'One Life' underwhelms. While Anthony Hopkins is subtle and moving as the elder Winton, Johnny Flynn disappoints as the young version of the character, giving a lifeless performance. The cinematography is generic, there is no tension whatsoever and the score is ineffectual, although supporting actors, such as Lena Olin and Romola Garai, impress greatly. At the end of the day, the film is a missed opportunity, not doing justice to Winton's remarkable humanitarian efforts. It might be worth watching once, but certainly not twice in a lifetime.

A moving tribute

[brockfal · 8/10 · 28 December 2023]

The story of Nicholas Winton, who saved hundreds of children from the Nazis just before the start of WW2 by organising trains from Czechoslovakia to the UK, is very much a story worth telling, especially as he was essentially a modest hero, one who didn't even think he deserved recognition, which makes his story all the more moving as it unfolds in flashback from late 70s Britain as Winton, superbly portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, remembers the events of the late 1930s.

Of course, there have been so many WW2 dramas over the years, so I felt the pre-war scenes do somewhat lack tension and a certain freshness, but good direction and succinct writing do calmly and absorbingly set the scene, explaining those earlier events well, but we also follow the way that 40 years later the heroic efforts of Winton and his colleagues were finally revealed and celebrated, ultimately making it a truly moving and revealing film. Perhaps, considering how things look today, it's also a reminder of how good really can triumph over evil and cynicism, and it's finally a superb tribute to a remarkable man.

Worthy tear jerker.

[dweston-38669 · 1 March 2024]

Anthony Hopkins excels in the lead role, showing he's still magnetic well into his 80s and he's ably supported by Johnny Flynn playing him as a younger man and it's good to see Lena Olin again on the screen, playing his wife.

It's a solid drama that will appeal to the same target audience that made The Great Escaper,Operation Mincemeat,Dirty Little Letters etc popular; the older generation- and there's nothing wrong with, at least their going to the movies!

I knew about the Kindertransport but not fully; this film dutifully tells the story and it has the same level of tension that Munich: The Edge of War had ,countries being invaded as a set up to tell humane stories.

The classic TV recreation on' This Life' was well done and moving.

Compares favourably with Schindler's List

[jurquhart-24429 · 7/10 · 13 March 2024]

Seeing 'The Zone of Interest' and 'One Life' one week apart has been a thought-provoking experience, since both concern aspects of the Holocaust and both are strikingly timely, given what's going on in the world right now.

One film aims to examine the everyday lives of a notorious mass murderer and his family, straining to absorb us into a documentary-like virtual reality experience of the quotidian concerns of mundane evil. The other seeks no such novelty, telling the remarkable story of Nicky Winton, a young English stockbroker who helped to rescue many hundreds of Czech Jewish children from the Nazis, in more conventional terms.

It's a fine film, comparable to 'Schindler's List' in content and style, also including the participation of real survivors and with a sprinkling of archival clips and photos. It's also more moving and satisfying as a film than the more highly-rated and Oscar-awarded 'Zone', which fails to deliver the impact that its director so earnestly desires, despite the plaudits. Ultimately, 'One Life' is a story of human goodness against the odds, and that's what leaves a lasting impression. Ambitious films like 'Zone' are necessary too, but if they don't really tell a story they risk leaving only an impression of emptiness and meaninglessness, not enough for a work of art unless you're very very good at it.

A true hero !

[phil-91331 · 10/10 · 2 January 2024]

Nicholas Winton became widely known in Britain decades ago when the "That's Life !" TV programme revealed his role in organising the Kindertransport trains which saved over 600 Jewish children from almost-certain death in a Czechoslovakia which had been controlled by Nazi Germany since it invaded the Sudentenland in 1938 by bringing them to Britain.

The film alternates between the 1930s and modern times and both Anthony Hopkins (playing the older Winton) and Johnny Flynn (playing the younger Winton) are excellent - as is Helen Bonham Carter playing Winton's mother.

One of the most moving sections is Winton's endless regret for the fact that the 250 children on the ninth - and last - train could not be saved as the train was due to leave Prague station on 1st September 1939 - the day on which Britain declared war on Germany.

A most moving film and I defy anyone who watches it to deny that they have had to brush away tears from time to time.

This film deserves to be as well-regarded as Schindler's List.

One Life - a mixed review

[gordon_ska · 6/10 · 25 February 2024]

"One Life" weaves the commendable tale of Nicholas Winton's heroism, buoyed by a stellar cast and superb acting, notably from the great master, Anthony Hopkins. Despite these strengths, the film treads familiar territory, echoing narratives seen in numerous historical dramas. Its pacing languishes, rendering the plot somewhat predictable and the story's remarkable essence underlit. While it's a respectful nod to Winton's legacy, the film's conventional approach and lack of narrative depth result in a viewing experience that feels drawn out. A true story of immense courage, "One Life" ultimately delivers a mixed emotional impact, meriting a 6/10 rating for its noble yet well-trodden path.

Could have been so much more

[Thippadu · 5/10 · 14 January 2024]

While the movie does somehow manage to deliver the content it nowhere gets deeper. Maybe it simplifies too much. It seemed untapped in so many ways.

Why does the film have to touch every aspect and then downplay every effort? What about all the struggle a family goes through when sending off their kids, forever in this case? What about the child? The narrative they are being convinced with? Their state during this period of transport? How big of an effort the raising families have undertaken? Well, what about the sympathy that Nicholas builds for these children that he goes on to carry out such a big mission? How would anyone trust him? Or perhaps the situation was so dire that no one really cared whether the man is really capable as it was that worse. The reality seems to have been so much more moving. Without such depth, it is just a mere number and name listing of the happening. A movie could have accomplished so much more for it deserved here.

Great film about saving children from Nazis

[chong_an · 9/10 · 17 September 2023]

This film runs on two parallel tracks. In 1938-39, young British stockbroker Nicholas Winton volunteers to spend one week in Prague helping the refugee organization there organize their files. He found children who had fled Germany or German-occupied Sudetenland, and decided that he needed to get them out to Britain. That involved finding foster parents, getting visas from initially reluctant bureaucrats, and raising money, not just for the trip, but a deposit for returning the children "when it was safe to do so". It ended when Britain declared war on Germany, and a British visa became worthless as protection against German authorities.

The other track is in 1987, when Nicky hands over his Prague scrapbook to a researcher. It included the photographs, names, and last known addresses of the children. The information went to a normally-fluffy British TV show, where Nicky was introduced to one of his "children" the show had found. That led to a follow-up show after many other "Nicky's children" contacted the TV show.

This story has been the subject of at least one documentary, but not yet brought to life as a drama. The cinematography was interesting, in that the color palette could immediately inform the viewer of the time period of the story. The 1987 scenes have the bigger stars, but the 1939 scenes form the bulk of the film, and are far more gripping.

I saw this at the world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Due the the actors' strike, the actors were not present, but they managed to assemble maybe a dozen of Nicky's children to see their own story on the screen.

Powerful

[masonsaul · 8/10 · 1 January 2024]

All One Life has to do to honour its true story is tell it with care and competency and that's exactly what it does. This is a deeply affecting story of selfless people who did everything they could to save as many people as possible whilst others just ignored what was going on.

Anthony Hopkins is on terrific form here. He embodies the selflessness effortlessly and brings a heartbreaking sense of defeat, focusing on what he could've done rather than what he achieved. He's also one of the rare actors who can make you cry by bringing on the waterworks, when he cries you cry.

In the flashbacks Johnny Flynn is an extremely convincing younger version of Hopkins with that same desire to always do more. Helena Bonham Carter gets a loveable role supporting Flynn with a stern determination and refusal to take no for an answer.

James Hawes directs with a level of technical competency that's designed to go unnoticed. The production value is reminiscent of a high end BBC production, which is obviously very fitting and the pacing is really strong. Undoubtedly helped by spending the majority of the time in the flashbacks which are rife with tension.

just great

[Kirpianuscus · 18 March 2024]

I remember the short video, on Youtube, presenting the encounter of Nicholas Winter and "his"children in show studio.

This film offers entire story. And it does more than well. Difficult to write why "One Life"is absolutely touching. Indeed, the story of young idealist man helping children from a far country matters. Like the reference to Ukraine of today. Like the great example of use your life in noble purpose.

In same measure, a rich in beautiful moments , from the inspired portrait of Babi Winton, proposed by. Helena Bonham Carter to the dialogue between Sir Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce ( reminding Two Popes ), to the great crafted tension and cinematography.

I admitt, I was not impressed by Schindler list of Steven Spielberg, but this film, admirable film, touched me to tears. Not as film about Shoah but as good kick to define my life as useful and as answer of past for a splendid gesture, mix of convinction, dedication and activ compassion for other.

Beautiful war story, but too much Hollywood for me.

[gilianvanderheide · 6/10 · 15 January 2024]

I cannot say other than that it is a wonderful true war story, however poorly and lazily written with no build-up of characters. There is no explanation or background of why the main character is doing this. I would have liked it if they had shown something of his childhood, some psychological reason why he is so driven to save these people, in order to get more into the story as a viewing audience. It feels uncomfortable though to give a low rating because the story per se does touch me, especially that survivors helped to make the film, and played along with the film themselves. I think the disappointment was mainly that this was necessary to feel emotion for the story, rather than a talent-written piece.

Smart Movie

[tedlapis · 10/10 · 17 March 2024]

Best film I've seen in a while. This one engages you with a compelling story about real heroism demonstrated by people who were risking everything to save children they didn't know.

Refreshing in our era of "What's in it for me?" to understand that people rose to the challenge of living life to its fullest. Satisfying to see how making a difference for innocent children, without any hope of reciprocity, improved so many lives.

"One Life" demonstrates the power of humanity when in pursuit of a higher purpose. This movie, based upon a true story, puts service to others into a useful perspective. The very antithesis of "Hooray for me!" is working hard to provide a future for young people.

A Compelling Story That, Nevertheless, Could Use Some Work

[brentsbulletinboard · 6/10 · 27 March 2024]

For some of us, there's no stopping when it comes to seeing through on a mission of vital importance. So it was in 1938, when a dedicated English stockbroker selflessly enabled the successful escape of 669 children (mostly Jewish) from Prague not long after the Third Reich "annexed" Czechoslovakia's Sudetenland region, the first step toward Germany's invasion of the country and the eventual onset of World War II. British-born Nicholas Winton (Anthony Hopkins), the descendant of German Jewish ancestors, and members of the British Committee for Refugees from Czechoslovakia both on the ground and in London worked tirelessly against seemingly impossible odds to facilitate the youngsters' flight to freedom. In particular, Winton's younger self (Johnny Flynn) and his determined mother (Helena Bonham Carter) battled a reluctant British bureaucracy, intolerant prejudicial attitudes and border-crossing obstacles to arrange protective train transport across Europe to secure the safety of the young refugees. But, for all of Winton's successes, he felt remorse that he was unable to do more, especially when he looked back on what he accomplished 40 years after the fact. Thankfully, his efforts didn't go unnoticed, at last receiving the recognition for what he did, earning him the gratitude of the survivors and the honors of a grateful nation. Director James Hawes tells a compelling story in his debut feature film, though the execution, regrettably, could use some shoring up, especially in the film's sluggishly paced, overly talky and occasionally meandering opening half. The picture's back end, however, considerably makes up for these deficiencies, evoking genuine, well-earned, heartfelt emotions, qualities that could have made for a better release overall if they had been employed more fully earlier on. This is largely made possible by the powerful performances of Hopkins, Flynn, Bonham Carter and a host of supporting players, along with fine period piece production values. "One Life" ultimately delivers a message that we could all stand to hear more often, not only in supporting monumental undertakings like those depicted here, but also in being giving of ourselves in general, no matter how great or small the efforts or ventures might be. The world would certainly be a better place for doing so - and for the work of the Nicholas Wintons that reside within all of us.

Superb storytelling Superb performances

[tm-sheehan · 10/10 · 31 December 2023]

My Review - One Life In Cinemas now My Rating 10/10

Before I begin this review I have to say that it was impossible for me not to be moved by Nicholas Winton story without looking at it through the prism of World events today, in the hope that perhaps there is a Nicholas Winton working in the background to save the innocent children caught up in todays war torn world.

One of the end credits of this fine movie states that Nicholas Winton left his scrapbook to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial in Israel . My hope is that the politicians in Israel look at this scrapbook and learn its lessons as was Nicholas Winton's wish for his legacy to teach rather than preach.

Already more than 6,600 Palestinian children that's ten times more than the 660 children Nicholas Winton helped rescue have been killed in the conflict between Israel and Gaza and not forgetting the estimated 535 children killed in the conflict in Ukraine .

The movie One Life skilfully directed by James Hawkes is based on the true story of British humanitarian Nicholas Winton .

The role of young Nicholas Winton is played by Johnny Flynn who perfectly compliments his older self played by Anthony Hopkins .

Anthony Hopkins in my opinion is one of the most skilful actors in the business today . Every one of his performances is a masterclass study in understanding empathy and humility rarely does his characterisation seem forced or contrived that can't be said of many actors.

One Life is set in two eras 1938 to 1939 during the beginning of World War 11 when the German Army occupied and invaded Czechoslovakia .

Then nearly 50 years later in 1987 Anthony Hopkins as the elderly Nicholas Winton looks back on his past efforts to help groups of Jewish children in German-occupied Czechoslovakia .

A humble quiet man not seeking notoriety but wanting his experience to be preserved in an effort to perhaps stop the same events occurring again is thrust into the limelight of a television show with an amazing result.

We see how the traumatic events on his arrival in Prague when he first witnesses the plight of Jewish refugees fleeing the cruel Nazi regime prompts him to initiate an escape plan for the children of targeted parents in an effort to avoid their obvious fate if left to the mercy of the invading German army.

With the help of his colleagues in Prague and his mother Babette Winton played by the wonderful Helena Bonham Carter in one of her best supporting roles in years he forms the life saving operation known as the Czech Kindertransport .

His mother battles the government bureaucracy back home in an effort to locate foster parents and visas to bring the children to freedom in England while Nicholas Winton and his team in Prague organise transport and try to locate the lists of endangered children from the Jewish authorities after gaining their trust.

Wonderful ensemble supporting performances from Romola Garai, Alex Sharp, Jonathan Pryce, Lena Olin. Tom Glenister, Samantha Spiro and many more bring this emotional heartfelt true story to life on screen.

It's so wonderful for this moviegoer to end 2023 with 2 movies in a row that I consider among the best of the year , especially on Sir Anthony Hopkin's 86th Birthday may you be blessed with many more days One at a Time.

One Life

[CinemaSerf · 7/10 · 11 January 2024]

Johnny Flynn performs quite well here as the young stockbroker Nicholas Winton who arrives in Prague just as the Nazis annexe the Sudetenland. He is horrified by the child poverty that he sees and decides, perhaps naively, to work with his British Refugee Council colleagues to try and expedite their removal to a safer and altogether earthier environment. Fortunately, his mother Babette (Helena Bonham Carter), herself from immigrant stock, is no slouch when it comes to doorstepping officials in Whitehall and soon has convinced the authorities to agree a fast-track mechanism that will enable him to get the children back to the UK provided they have guaranteed foster homes and the fairly massive sum of £50 as a guarantee. He returns to London and a massive public awareness/fundraising campaign ensues - as do eight trains carrying over six hundred children to safety. We are told this story via a series of flashbacks from the modern day Winton (Sir Anthony Hopkins) who now lives peacefully with his wife Greta (Lena Olin) in Berkshire. He is perusing a scrapbook he has left in a drawer for forty-odd years in which he has photographs and details of many of those passengers on the "Kinder" trains. His friend from back then (Jonathan Pryce) manages to put him in touch with Betty Maxwell - the wife of the wealthy publisher Robert, and next thing he is on British television's most popular "That's Life" programme that regularly reached 18 million people on a Sunday evening. This appearance poignantly introduces him to one survivor, his next sees that snowball into some sixty or so who owed their life and liberty to the efforts of Winton and his colleagues - whom he is always very clear to ensure are never forgotten. I recall watching this programme back in the day and the dramatisation is no less moving than the original broadcast. Sir Anthony offers us a considered performance - demonstrating a shy family man who rejects the trappings of fuss and celebrity because he sees his behaviour as nothing special. Doing the right thing. His efforts are touching and understated and nicely dovetail with the rather pushy and forthright Bonham Carter fighting tooth and nail against red tape in 1939. As an insight to Nazi tyranny it also works subtly. We see very little actual violence, but we see a squalor and hopelessness that robs the soul of hope as depressingly as the situation robs their stomachs of food. The film looks good and is sparingly scripted allowing our own imagination to do much of the thinking here.

An inspirational true story

[lawrencep0 · 9/10 · 12 October 2023]

The story is fairly well known now, at least in the UK, but hopefully this film will bring it to the world. The film brings the story to life and how daunting and hopeless the task seemed to begin with. I had previously assumed Nicholas Winton had some sort of link to the establishment in order to get the necessary visas and other requirements. In fact, he was just an ordinary guy who felt he had to do something and, with other ordinary people, tackled each problem methodically and was able to overcome all hurdles to bring 669 mainly Jewish children out of pre-war Prague - almost certainly saving their lives.

So inspiring and, indeed, heroic.

With such a story, it is difficult to think that the film would not be pretty good just on that alone. However, I have seen inspiring stories fumbled before. That is not the case here. To my eyes it was handled with a deft touch aided by great performances from the ensemble cast, particularly by Anthony Hopkins and Helena Bonham Carter.

As one might expect, the 2 timelines of pre-war Prague and the near present when the story came to light are run in parallel and that works very well, with each being moving in their own way. Together is something of an emotional overload - but in a good way. Nicky did so much but was also traumatised by those he was not able to save. Seeing all those alive today because of his efforts must have been cathartic. There is a touch of It's a Wonderful Life about the film - which is never a bad thing.

The message that determined ordinary people can make a difference facing daunting obstacles is timeless. This is a true story and so not just empty rhetoric. Also, about caring for others, particularly in the face of man's ongoing inhumanity to man. Hopefully this film will inspire future Nicholas Wintons.

Not brilliant, not bad, just workmanlike

[anniemarshallster · 6/10 · 6 March 2024]

Relying on good casting to pull together a relatively minor humanitarian effort to save children (mostly Jewish) from the onrush of Nazi persecution in Czechoslovakia doesn't make for a BIG movie; perhaps the best takeaway being that bureaucratic obstructionism always raises its ugly head when people are trying to do something humanitarian and worthwhile.

So that's very appropriate for these troubled times.

And there's always regret that more wasn't done...

No accident I think that the movers and shakers who do achieve humanitarian things are often the "outsiders".

Perhaps the script needed more interaction with those Czech families... And a touch more anger!

Life affirming story, lifeless movie

[farrellyfrank52 · 3/10 · 6 January 2024]

From the start, this bore all the dreaded hallmarks of a routine TV movie: stale dialogue, laboured narrative, undeveloped characters. It was docu without the drama. No attempt to explore or present the trauma of separation and forced exile. All too clean, too tidy, too predictable, too focussed on the facts. I liked Hopkins, though remember him mostly as simply pottering around, mulling silently about the past. Things lifted in the final That's Life section, but in the end, I was left with the taste of cloying sentimentality and self-congratulation. I get it that the film was a tribute, and rightly, and deservedly so, in honouring this great man- but as a film, only a poor man's Schindler's, at best.