Waiting for Anya

Waiting for Anya is a poignant depiction of World War II's devastating impact on a French community, based on the novel of the same name by Michael Morpurgo. Released in 2020, this heart-rending period drama exhibits a threnodic account of the Holocaust intertwined with innocent childhood and raw heroism. Directed by Ben Cookson and co-written by Cookson and Toby Torlesse, the film stars Noah Schnapp, Thomas Kretschmann, and Frederick Schmidt in significant roles.

Set in Lescun, a small village nestled in the French Pyrenees, the film unfolds through the eyes of Jo Lalande (Noah Schnapp) - a young shepherd boy. Schnapp, known for his role in Stranger Things, skillfully dawns the challenging and mature character of Jo, whose life-centric on herding his flock and day-to-day rural existence takes an unexpected turn. Following a chance encounter, he becomes entangled into the raging war and contributes to a high-stakes mission leaning on courage, endurance, and sheer determination.

Accompanied by a mysterious stranger, played convincingly by Thomas Kretschmann, Jo undertakes a daring endeavor to shepherd Jewish children evacuated from a concentration camp across the border into the safety of Spain. This silent rebellion against the reigning Nazi controllers is both riveting and precariously dangerous. Kretschmann's portrayal of the stranger (Benjamin) brings an element of mystery, tension and warmth to the narrative.

Frederick Schmidt graces the screen as a threatening, physically imposing presence of Corporal Horst, stationed in the village to snuff out any French resistance or aid to the Jews. Despite his character's ominous undertone, Schmidt manages to bring a modicum of humanity to Horst, creating a multifaceted antagonist that adds unpredictability to the story's progression.

Further fleshing out the tale, we see Jo's grandfather played by Jean Reno, whose performance deepens Jo's character and the film's exploration of innocence, courage, and consequence. Similarly, Anjelica Huston's portrayal of the widow Horcada adds an extra layer of emotional strength and resilience to the narrative, as she forms an integral part of Jo and Benjamin's dangerous mission.

Visually, Waiting for Anya transports us into the heart of 1940s rural France, each frame capturing the sullen beauty of the Pyrenees landscapes — an innocent setting against the backdrop of wartime. The film beautifully contrasts the serenity of this natural backdrop with the turbulent times, creating a poetic paradox.

Music by James Seymour Brett further binds the tapestry of the film. The score goes hand-in-hand with the plot, strengthening the visual and emotional aspects of the narrative. The sound-design and score effectively encapsulate the urgency, suspense, and tension-filled ambiance of the movie, while also complementing the softer, introspective moments.

The narrative threading through Waiting for Anya brings to life a lesser-known chapter of history, encapsulating the stark reality of war-torn France and the Holocaust's horrors. At the same time, it delights in presenting the unsullied spirit of rural life, the simple joys and the coming-of-age of a young boy beset by unimaginable circumstances.

At its core, Waiting for Anya is a tale of courage, resilience, and hope amidst despair. It explores complex themes like innocence juxtaposed with the harsh reality of war, the lengths individuals go to protect humanity, the power of unity, and the blossoming of unexpected friendships in dire conditions.

Waiting for Anya is an impactful exploration of an ephemeral moment in history, a tale of a small village transcending fear and risk to contribute to a larger cause. It leaves a lingering thought — when faced with overwhelming odds, ordinary individuals can accomplish extraordinary deeds. This deeply poignant and soul-stirring film will continue to echo long after the curtain falls.