Latest news with #TheBoyintheStripedPyjamas
Metro
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
'Devastating' disturbing film based on a true story comes to Amazon Prime Video
A film guaranteed to leave you weeping and wailing has landed on Amazon Prime Video. Released in 2008, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas shows war from the gut-wrenching, innocent perspective of a child as eight-year-old boys Bruno (Asa Butterfield) and Shmuel (Jack Scanlon) strike up a forbidden friendship. Set during World War II, Bruno moves with his parents and sister from Berlin to a new home by a concentration camp, where his father (David Thewlis) has just become the commandant. As the youngster wanders off out of boredom, unbeknownst to his family, Bruno grows close with the Jewish boy behind the barbed-wire fence, visiting him frequently without a clue about what's truly happening on what he believes is a 'farm.' Their special bond ultimately has devastating consequences, and it's safe to say the movie's final twist packs a real punch. Despite being released almost 20 years ago, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas remains a hugely popular, albeit divisive, film. Based on John Boyne's book of the same name, it is often shown in schools to offer students an emotional insight into the Holocaust and generate discussions. However, despite receiving generally positive reviews for its emotional storytelling upon its initial release, it also garnered criticism for 'misrepresenting' and 'trivialising' elements of war. But now you can decide for yourself, as the 94-minute historical drama is available to stream. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas has a 65% rating overall from critics on review platform Rotten Tomatoes, while viewers have scored it 85%. Among the feedback, Richard Crouse writes that it will 'take your breath away,' while Mike Massie says 'this is a film that cannot be easily forgotten.' 'The Boy in the Striped Pajamas may very well be 2008's most important family film [sic],' says Richard Propes. 'Even in its lighter moments, the picture never downplays the horror of the situation, and the devastating ending is potent enough to affect even those viewers who write it off as nothing more than a sensationalist stunt,' argues Matt Brunson. 'A movie so horrific it haunts your dreams but so fascinating you can't turn your eyes away from it,' Jackie K. Cooper pens. In contrast, though, some suggest that the plot is 'too manufactured' and 'gimmicky'. Since it was released, there's no denying that child actor Asa, now 28, has forged a successful career for himself. He was 10 when he made The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, with director Mark Herman saying they came across him early on in the audition process. In the years since, he's appeared in Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, and, most famously, took the lead in Netflix series Sex Education, starring opposite Gillian Anderson. More Trending As for Jack, the now 26-year-old lives a quieter life. Both he and co-star Asa were nominated for the Young Artist Awards thanks to their performances in the movie, with Jack going on to star in the BBC miniseries Runaway in 2009. He remained close friends with Asa after the pair were plucked from obscurity to star in what would become a hit film; however, Jack no longer acts. Watch The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas on Amazon Prime Video. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Amazon Prime Video quietly adds one of the 'best horror shows ever' MORE: Amazon Prime confirms iconic 90s gameshow revival with WWE legend as host MORE: Amazon Prime fans rush to binge 'incredible' thriller axed 10 years ago
Yahoo
16-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Popular Arthur Miller classic tale to feature in Cheshire theatre's spring season
A POPULAR Arthur Miller classic tale will feature in a dramatic Crewe Lyceum Theatre spring season. Death of a Salesman will headline the season from March 27 to March 29, directed by and starring David Hayman. A prominent actor and director, David has become well-known for his roles in productions like Sid and Nancy and The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas. The Pulitzer Prize-winning story follows the last 24 hours of Willy Loman's life, exploring the tension between a father's expectations and his son's realities. The play delves into the sacrifices made in pursuit of the 'American Dream', offering a timeless narrative of ambition, family, and the cost of seeking success. (Image: Supplied) Animal Farm, George Orwell's enduring satire on the corruption of power, will take to the stage from March 18 and March 19. This critically acclaimed production presents a powerful retelling of the familiar classic, ensuring its relevance resonates with contemporary audiences. April 18 and April 19 will see the rise of Dracula. Nick Lane's adaptation of Bram Stoker's gothic thriller promises a blend of Victorian Gothic and contemporary elements. This production aims to deliver an exhilarating theatrical experience, featuring a haunting soundscape, innovative design, and powerful performances. For those wishing to enjoy the thrilling season of drama, tickets and further information are available online.
