International Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed each January 27 as a Memorial of the liberation Auschwitz and Pledge for never forgetting what happened during the Holocaust. Developed from the silence that first covered an unimaginable catastrophe, this Day was born in 2000 with UN acknowledgment of a global need for remembrance.
It is a Bridge to the Era of Tomorrow. It tells us all to not only condemn intolerance but also commit to educate and make sure that never again will darkness be like it was during the Holocaust. On this Day, we remember the many who died and vow to “Never Again”. To educate and inspire, here are some of the powerful Holocaust Movies List.
Schindler’s List (1993) – a Great Movie of Courage and Humanity, is a must watch in the Holocaust Movies List.
The Schindler’s List by Steven Spielberg will always be one of the pillars in Holocaust films. This Film follows the horrifying yet promising history of Oskar Schindler. Oskar who was a German Industrialist who prevailed over evil to save more than 1,100 Jews. It is by means of Schindler’s courage that the Film shows the inextinguishable nature of mankind despite insurmountable horror.
The Diary of Anne Frank (1959) – a Heartbreaking Odyssey of Hope
This is a moving adaptation of Anne Frank’s Diary. It allows us to make closer acquaintance with the life history of a young Jewish Girl. This girl would try to hide from the Nazis. From Anne’s perspective, we see the human spirit withstand such unspeakable horrors while hope remains eternal. The theme of this movie causes this great film to be included in the list of Holocaust Movies to watch.
Son of Saul (2015) – Facing the Lowest Point in Human Brutality
Another original take on the theme comes from Hungary in a form of Film entitled ‘Son of Saul’. This film is about Sonderkommando – Jewish prisoner working at Auschwitz gas chambers. This unblinkered portrayal compels viewers to grapple with the lowest levels of human cruelty and contemplate what people subjected to such horrific positions must have endured.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008) – A Child’s Story of Injustice
This tragic Movie narrates the story of Holocaust through an eight-year-old German Boy. Bruno and Shmuel’s unlikely friendship in Auschwitz is quite surprising. It shakes up Bruno’s view of the world and pushes him to grasp different perspectives. It’s kind of unbelievable how this connection makes him rethink his beliefs and truly understand others’ points of view. The bond between them challenges Bruno in unexpected ways, offering a profound lesson in empathy and opening his eyes to a broader understanding of the world.
Defiance (2008) – Resisting and Courage Under Oppression
“Defiance” narrates the real-life story of the Bielski Brothers who led a heroic rescue mission in Nazi occupied Belorussia. They inspire with their story of how human beings have the ability to endure despite all odds.
Holocaust Movies: Commemorating Resilience and Reflection on International Holocaust Remembrance Day
As we interact with these strong Holocaust films, let us keep in mind that they are not solely meant for enjoyment but rather as educational tools and catalysts to reflection and involvement. Viewer discretion is not only advised but it’s also suggested to go into any of the educational resources and historical context before or after watching the specific film.
These films are important tools to pay respects to the victims, learn from the past and strive for a more humane tomorrow. On this International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we use the medium of Movie to create echoes whereby remembrance will resonate through generations.
