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The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton
9.0

The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton (2003)

Mar 27, 2003 1h 4m Documentary History

A gripping documentary about the courage and determination of a young English stockbroker who saved the lives of 669 children. Between March 13 and August 2, 1939, Nicholas Winton organized 8 transports to take children from Prague to new homes in Great Britain, and kept quiet about it until his wife discovered a scrapbook documenting his unique mission in 1988. Winton was a successful 29-year-old stockbroker in London who "had an intuition" about the fate of the Jews when he visited Prague in 1939. He quietly but decisively got down to the business of saving lives. We learn how only two countries, Sweden and Britain, answered his call to harbor the young refugees; how documents had to be forged and how once foster parents signed for the children on delivery, that was the last he saw of them.

Directed by Matej Mináč

Cast

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Nicholas Winton
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Nicholas Winton

as Self

Simon Wiesenthal
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Simon Wiesenthal

as Self

Karel Reisz
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Karel Reisz

as Self

Václav Havel
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Václav Havel

as Self

Crew

Director
  • Matej Mináč

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Thematic Analysis

The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Matej Mináč brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2003, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 64 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 93 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2003, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Damned United, which focuses more on action than character development, The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc and Che: Part Two explore similar territory, The Power of Good: Nicholas Winton stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 27, 2003
  • Runtime: 1h 4m

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