One of the most critically acclaimed films in cinematic history, Steven Spielberg's 'Schindler's List', is set to broadcast on BBC2 tonight, Sunday 18 January, at 10pm. The harrowing black-and-white masterpiece, which details the true horrors of the Holocaust during World War Two, continues to be hailed as an essential and profoundly moving piece of cinema.
A Story of Transformation Amidst Atrocity
The 1993 film chronicles the remarkable true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist and Nazi Party member portrayed by Liam Neeson. Initially motivated by profit, Schindler undergoes a radical transformation. Witnessing the increasing brutality of the regime, particularly through his interactions with the sadistic SS officer Amon Göth (Ralph Fiennes), he begins risking his own life and fortune.
Schindler ultimately saves over 1,200 Polish Jews from extermination by employing them in his factories and meticulously bribing officials. The film's climax revolves around the creation of his famous "list," which designated these individuals as essential workers, thus sparing them from the concentration camps.
Acclaimed Craft and Unforgettable Impact
'Schindler's List' is renowned for its stark artistic choices and powerful performances. Spielberg's decision to film in black-and-white was a conscious effort to evoke the feel of 1940s documentary footage, heightening the film's historical realism and sombre tone. The movie features a stellar cast, including Ben Kingsley as Schindler's Jewish accountant Itzhak Stern.
The film's production was deeply personal, with Holocaust survivor Branko Lustig serving as a producer and making a cameo appearance. Upon release, it was met with universal acclaim, winning seven Academy Awards, including the top prizes for Best Picture and Best Director.
Enduring Praise from Critics and Audiences
Decades after its release, the film maintains a near-perfect 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Audience reviews consistently describe it as a heartbreaking, essential viewing experience. One reviewer called it "the most important movie ever made," while others have praised its flawless direction, score, and acting—particularly Fiennes's chilling performance.
Many viewers note the emotional difficulty of rewatching the film, yet emphasise its timeless relevance and the beauty of its message about humanity in the face of absolute evil. The brief, iconic use of colour—a little girl's red coat—remains one of the most powerful visual motifs in modern film.
For those seeking to understand one of history's darkest chapters through a lens of individual courage, 'Schindler's List' on BBC2 tonight offers an unmissable, profoundly affecting experience.
