The Painted Bird (2019)

“The Painted Bird” is a 2019 war drama film directed by Vaclav Marhoul, based on the novel of the same name by Jerzy Kosiński. The movie follows a young Jewish boy, played by Petr Kotlár, who is sent to live with his aunt during World War II. When his aunt dies, he embarks on a journey through Nazi-occupied Eastern Europe, encountering a series of harrowing experiences and meeting various characters along the way.

The film features a cast of mostly unknown actors, with the exception of Harvey Keitel, Stellan Skarsgård, and Udo Kier, who appear in supporting roles. It is notable for its stark, black-and-white cinematography, as well as its unflinching portrayal of violence and brutality.

Upon its release, “The Painted Bird” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its visual style and performances, while others criticized it for its extreme violence and bleakness. However, it was also hailed as a powerful and important work of art by some, with many critics acknowledging its unrelenting exploration of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust.

The movie was selected as the Czech Republic's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 93rd Academy Awards, but it was not ultimately nominated. It did, however, receive several other awards and nominations, including the Best Cinematography Award at the 2019 Venice Film Festival and the Best International Film Award at the 2020 Palm Springs International Film Festival.

Overall, “The Painted Bird” is a challenging and emotionally intense film that delves into the darkest aspects of human nature and the devastating impact of war on innocent lives. It may not be for everyone, but for those willing to confront its difficult subject matter, it is a powerful and thought-provoking work of cinema.