Playing for Time is based on a true story in Auschwitz. Paradoxically we see no gas chambers because the central character portrayed by Vanessa Redgrave survives by performing in a camp orchestra for the benefit of the camp bosses.
Instead we get an in depth portrayal of "life" in the death camp through the remarkable portrayal of the lead actress. I have never seen a role where Vanessa is not thoroughly convincing in her performance. I must comment on the frequent criticism that in her personal life she holds controversial views. I find this totally irrelevant. In their professional roles, actors are precisely that and we marvel how they can realistically display unimaginable features. Vanessa is the finest of actors and that alone is what must matter.
I recall a holocaust film that focused on naked women being herded into a gas chamber. Ratings determined that many viewers were "turned on" by such a scene. How contemptible! In this film you will not be "turned on" by anything, rather you will feel the horrors of the experience.
One of the creepiest characters is Dr. Mengele. At times almost gently polite, we know that he was one of the most evil camp physicians. As some bosses were busy partying, it was the physicians who selected the victims for immediate death or for merciless medical experimentation. Most doctors escaped punishment after the camp was liberated.
This excellent movie gives you a real taste of the death camp. Even the train ride to the facility is graphic in detail. A powerful film, with a powerful actress who will transport you there and guard you from personal harm.
Instead we get an in depth portrayal of "life" in the death camp through the remarkable portrayal of the lead actress. I have never seen a role where Vanessa is not thoroughly convincing in her performance. I must comment on the frequent criticism that in her personal life she holds controversial views. I find this totally irrelevant. In their professional roles, actors are precisely that and we marvel how they can realistically display unimaginable features. Vanessa is the finest of actors and that alone is what must matter.
I recall a holocaust film that focused on naked women being herded into a gas chamber. Ratings determined that many viewers were "turned on" by such a scene. How contemptible! In this film you will not be "turned on" by anything, rather you will feel the horrors of the experience.
One of the creepiest characters is Dr. Mengele. At times almost gently polite, we know that he was one of the most evil camp physicians. As some bosses were busy partying, it was the physicians who selected the victims for immediate death or for merciless medical experimentation. Most doctors escaped punishment after the camp was liberated.
This excellent movie gives you a real taste of the death camp. Even the train ride to the facility is graphic in detail. A powerful film, with a powerful actress who will transport you there and guard you from personal harm.