Film Review: One Life (2023)

I was again searching for true stories about finding meaning in life when you are in the middle of a war or death experience. My sister sent me a link and wrote, "Yuliia, you must watch it. This is definitely what you are searching for." I opened the link and watched. I was stunned and speechless. I do not remember when a film touched me so much last time. When the film finished, I wept and sat for 30 minutes in total silence, afterward reflecting on what I can do as an ordinary person, how I can change this world and help it to be a better place.

Overview

"One Life" is a deep and sincere biographical drama that tells the remarkable true story of Sir Nicholas Winton, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins. Winton, a British stockbroker, orchestrated the rescue of 669 predominantly Jewish children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia on the eve of World War II. The film seamlessly interweaves Winton's courageous efforts as a young man with his later years, reflecting on his monumental yet largely unrecognized achievements.

Synopsis

The narrative unfolds across two timelines. In 1938, young Nicholas Winton travels to Prague and witnesses the dire conditions faced by Jewish refugee children under the looming threat of Nazi persecution. Compelled to act, he devises a meticulous plan to transport these children to safety in Britain, confronting bureaucratic obstacles and societal apathy along the way.

Decades later, the elder Winton, portrayed by Hopkins, leads a quiet life, his heroic deeds largely unrecognized. The film poignantly depicts his emotional journey as a BBC television program reunites him with some of the children he saved, now adults, bringing to light the profound impact of his selfless actions.

Key Insights

The Power of Ordinary Individuals: The film emphasizes that monumental change often stems from the actions of ordinary people. Winton's humility and determination exemplify how individual initiative can confront and overcome systemic injustices. As Winton asserts in the film, "I do because I'm an ordinary person." This sentiment is echoed by his colleague Trevor Chadwick, who remarks, "That's just what we need, isn't it? An army of the ordinary." Truly, we are ordinary people but when we have belief and our hearts are motivated by global positive impact and not by our ego, we can shift the mountains.

The Influence of Upbringing on Moral Courage: Winton's mother, Babi (Helena Bonham Carter), plays a pivotal role in shaping his ethical framework. The pivotal scene that opened my eyes and even mouth what true communication is, was her visit to the Embassy to receive visas for children from Czechoslovakia. "When I came to Britain, your country gave me a chance. It taught me dignity, fairness, and the value of doing what is right—not just what is easy. And now, I am asking you to fulfill that promise. I am asking you to stand by the very principles Britain claims to uphold. These children—have no time. No safe passage. No voice in this office. You, sir, are their voice today." The visas were given just because she believed, and made a communication from her heart.

Unrecognized Heroism: His story invites reflection on the countless others whose quiet acts of bravery have shaped history.

The Complexity of Bureaucratic Morality: The film sheds light on the moral dilemmas within bureaucratic systems, illustrating how rigid adherence to protocol can impede urgent humanitarian efforts and the necessity for compassionate flexibility.

Intergenerational Impact of Compassion: Winton's legacy extends beyond the immediate lives he saved, influencing subsequent generations and inspiring ongoing acts of kindness, demonstrating the enduring ripple effect of altruism.

Unwillingness to let go: He lived and kept this story with him all his life not letting it go, not giving a possibility for this story to be alive and heard. It burdened him, but finally, he revealed his courage to let go and let this story be universal not only his. 

Recommendation

"One Life" is a profoundly inspiring film that not only educates but also resonates on an emotional level. Anthony Hopkins delivers a masterful performance, capturing the essence of a man whose quiet resolve changed the course of many lives. This film is essential viewing for those interested in historical narratives, ethical dilemmas, and the profound impact of individual action asking himself/herself about existential questions.