As of my last update in April 2023, films about Auschwitz specifically delve into one of the most harrowing aspects of human history. Auschwitz, the largest and most notorious of the Nazi concentration and extermination camps, symbolizes the peak of human cruelty during the Holocaust, where millions of Jews, along with prisoners from various other groups, were systematically murdered. These films often aim to educate, commemorate, and provoke a deep reflection on the atrocities, ensuring that the memories of the victims are honored and the lessons of history are not forgotten. Films dealing with this theme typically explore the narratives of survival, resistance, loss, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of unimaginable horror.
Please note, the availability of films on Netflix can vary by region and over time. Here are some films that, as of my last knowledge update, have been noted for their portrayal of or connection to Auschwitz and its profound historical significance. If a film has been removed from Netflix or was unavailable in your region, it might still be found on other streaming platforms, or its availability may have changed.
“The Boy in the Striped Pajamas”, 2008
Director: Mark Herman
Although more of a historical drama than a documentary portrayal, this film tells a moving story about the unlikely friendship between an eight-year-old German boy and a Jewish boy held in Auschwitz. It's a poignant narrative that explores the horrors of the Holocaust through the innocence of childhood.
Starring: Asa Butterfield, Jack Scanlon, David Thewlis, Vera Farmiga, Amber Beattie, Sheila Hancock, Richard Johnson, Cara Horgan, David Hayman, Rupert Friend;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: drama, war;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 94 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “The Boy in the Striped Pajamas” on the website imdb.com
“Schindler's List”, 1993
Director: Steven Spielberg
While not exclusively about Auschwitz, this Steven Spielberg-directed masterpiece features scenes set in the camp as part of its broader narrative. It chronicles the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of over a thousand Polish-Jewish refugees from the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.
Starring: Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, Caroline Goodall, Embeth Davidtz, Jonathan Sagall, Malgoscha Gebel, Shmuel Levy, Mark Ivanir, Béatrice Macola;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: drama, biography, history, war;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 195 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 9;
More information about the film “Schindler's List” on the website imdb.com
Remember, the actual selection available to you can depend heavily on your geographical location and the current content catalog of Netflix. For the most current and comprehensive list, it's always best to check directly with Netflix's own platform or use its search function to find films related to Auschwitz and the Holocaust.
The selection of films about Auschwitz available on Netflix offers a deeply impactful and necessary journey into one of history's darkest periods. Through a variety of lenses—whether documentary, biographical, or fictional narrative—these films collectively underscore the profound horror of the Holocaust while illuminating the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unfathomable cruelty. They serve not only as a somber remembrance of the atrocities committed but also as a vital educational tool, instilling in contemporary audiences the importance of remembering history to prevent its repetition. As viewers navigate through these emotional portrayals, they're invited to reflect on the complexities of morality, the consequences of indifference, and the importance of empathy and action. Netflix's curation offers an accessible, meaningful avenue for audiences worldwide to bear witness, understand, and engage with the lessons Auschwitz continues to teach us.
