Synopsis: Based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Diane Ackerman, “The Zookeeper’s Wife” tells the story of Antonina and Jan Żabiński, owners of the Warsaw Zoo, who used their zoo to shelter Jews during the Nazi invasion of Poland in World War II. The movie depicts the Żabińskis’ bravery and heroism as they risk their lives to hide and protect hundreds of people from the horrors of the Holocaust.
Review:
“The Zookeeper’s Wife” is a powerful and emotional movie that portrays the courage and compassion of the Żabińskis in the face of unspeakable evil. The performances of Jessica Chastain and Johan Heldenbergh are outstanding, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. The film’s cinematography and score also add to its overall impact, immersing the audience in the tense and dangerous atmosphere of wartime Poland.
Awards:
The movie received several nominations, including the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Actress for Jessica Chastain and the Satellite Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. It also won the Hollywood Film Awards for Best Makeup and Hairstyling.
| Directed by | Niki Caro, |
|---|---|
| Written by | Angela Workman |
| Based on | The Zookeeper’s Wife by Diane Ackerman |
| Produced by | Jeff Abberley Jamie Patricof Diane Miller Levin Kim Zubick Robbie Tollin |
| Starring | Jessica Chastain, Johan Heldenbergh, Daniel Brühl, Michael McElhatton, |
| Cinematography | Andrij Parekh |
| Edited by | David Coulson |
| Music by | Harry Gregson-Williams |
| Production companies |
Scion Films Electric City Entertainment Tollin Productions Rowe/Miller Productions Czech Anglo Productions |
| Distributed by | Focus Features (United States) Universal Pictures (International) |
| Release dates | 8 March 2017 (Warsaw) 31 March 2017 (United States) 21 April 2017 (United Kingdom) |
| Running time | 126 minutes |
| Countries | United States United Kingdom Czech Republic |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $20 million |
| Box office | $26.2 million |