Rating: 3.5/5
“White Bird,” directed by Marc Forster, is a deeply moving film, lifted by its powerful performances, especially from Helen Mirren, Ariella Glaser, and Orlando Schwerdt. Set during World War II, the story follows Sara, a Jewish girl who is hidden by her classmate Julien and his family during the Nazi occupation of France. While the plot itself feels familiar, the emotional depth brought by the cast makes this film stand out. A rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars feels right for this heartfelt yet somewhat predictable movie.
Plot:
Sara (played by Ariella Glaser) is the cherished daughter of a doctor and professor (Ishai Golan), living an idyllic life in a small French town. Her world revolves around school and friends, where she, like others, is drawn to the charming Vincent (Jem Matthews) and often mocks the shy, polio-stricken Julien (Orlando Schwerdt). But her life is upended when anti-Jewish laws and Nazi occupation invade her community. With her family unable to escape a Nazi roundup, Sara narrowly flees into the freezing woods. Julien, using the sewers beneath the school, guides her to his family’s barn, where she is sheltered by his parents (played by Gillian Anderson and Jo Stone-Fewings).
Sara remains hidden there, awaiting the liberation of her town from fascist control. The core of the narrative, however, is her growing bond with Julien, which teaches her to value people not for their social status, but for their courage and shared humanity.
Review:
“White Bird” shines brightest in its portrayal of kindness, resilience, and hope amidst hardship. The film’s true strength lies in its stellar performances. Helen Mirren’s portrayal of Grandmère is both commanding and nuanced, balancing tenderness with gravity. Her role adds emotional weight to even the film’s quietest moments, anchoring the story with grace.
Ariella Glaser captures Sara’s transformation from carefree youth to war survivor with remarkable depth, while Orlando Schwerdt brings a gentle yet intense presence to the role of Julien. Together, their chemistry feels raw and genuine, elevating the film’s more predictable moments. The artistic connection between Sara and Julien—Sara’s art offering them solace during their time in hiding—adds a beautiful layer to the film’s message of hope through creativity.
Despite its conventional narrative, Forster’s direction brings imaginative flair, enveloping viewers in a historical tale that underscores the power of compassion in a world torn by hate. While the film has its flaws, “White Bird” ultimately succeeds as an emotional and inspiring story.