By Pam Honores
With a mix of satire and mockery, incredible cinematography and poignant storytelling, Taika Waititi has created an original film that takes some of the darkest years in human history and delivers it through a child’s eyes.
Waititi is able to take us through the story of a young boy, Jojo (Roman Grifin Davis) growing during the times of the Third Reich through both farce and pathos in sincere dialogue and sometimes absurd scenes. Oh and let’s not forget, his imaginary friend is Adolf Hitler, played by Waiti himself….talk about awkward directing moments while in costume.
Moving on, the story arc will take you through a whirlwind of emotions as you have to remind yourself that this is not only a “coming of age” story for Jojo but it’s in the middle of WW2. Waititi and the amazing cast were able to portray their own narratives in a way that gave us a view into the minds of those with good and treacherous intentions.
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The cast had incredibly well-written characters to work with. One of the standouts throughout the film was Rosie (portrayed by Scarlett Johansson), the vivacious, brave and kindhearted mom to Jojo Rabbit brought an incredible element to the social commentary as someone fighting against inhumanity however she could.
Other pivotal characters, Jojo and Elsa (Thomasin McKenzie) expressed the view of children on two ends of a spectrum. One that was recruited into a Hitler Youth and the other forced to live in hiding, relying on the kindness of a stranger. Both actors told their stories innocently and disarmingly in only a way that could only be told through a kid’s point of view.
In the end, the absurdities and sometimes outlandish situations Jojo encounters albeit entertaining also depict comedy through the director’s lens. Waitii’s use of comedy as an effective tool against oppression, bigotry, and prejudice in 2019 wouldn’t be brilliant without the talented actors, cinematography and smart dialogue. This film is a must-see! Catch this anti-hate satire while it’s still out.