The 2023 Netflix drama Irena's Vow recounts the true story of a nurse who sheltered Jewish people during the Holocaust, and it is drawing an emotional response from viewers.
Set during the Second World War, the film transports audiences to the 1940s, when Poland faced Nazi invasion and Jewish communities were being persecuted. The story centres on Irena Gut Opdyke, a courageous nurse who provided shelter and protection to Jewish people by concealing them in the cellar of the home where she was employed as a housekeeper.
A Story of Courage and Sacrifice
The homeowner was a German Army officer named Major Eduard Rügemer. Irena's account is one of several real stories of heroism, preserved in both this film and the Broadway play of the same name, both written by Dan Gordon.
Sophie Nélisse, known for her roles in Yellowjackets and The Book Thief, plays Irena Gut Opdyke, who was later recognised as a Righteous Among the Nations in Jerusalem for rescuing 12 Jews. The cast also includes Dougray Scott, Agata Turkot, Andrzej Seweryn and Irena Melcer.
Critical and Viewer Response
Nélisse's performance has drawn considerable acclaim, with one Rotten Tomatoes review calling it "outstanding." Another impressed viewer said: "Wow what a powerful, beautiful story. I'd never heard of this, and I do so like that it was based on true events. It also had exceptional acting by all. Give it a look, I'm sure you'll like it."
One fan cautioned about the film's graphic content, saying: "Superb film! Very intense violence in a couple of places ... thus the "R" rating is justified. However, the depiction of Nazi beastial anger seems authentic." Radio Times reviewed the film, saying: "Excellent performances - especially from Yellowjackets star Sophie Nélisse as Irena and Dougray Scott as her Nazi boss - elevate some skimpily scripted characters, but the compelling nature of an almost unbelievable true story keeps you gripped." Another critic drew comparisons between Irena and Schindler's List, praising its "vignettes of goodness and hope."
Personal Cost and Aftermath
The sacrifice came at a significant personal cost. When Rügemer discovered the 12 Jews she was sheltering, he agreed to keep her secret but demanded a sexual relationship in return. She eventually escaped to allied Germany before meeting her future husband and emigrating to America for a new beginning.
Irena's Vow is streaming on Netflix now.
