Jonathan Glazer’s film, The Zone of Interest, is a thought-provoking exploration of human nature, particularly during the Holocaust. By focusing on children, Glazer presents a stark contrast between good and evil, encouraging introspection. The film is set in Auschwitz, where Commandant Rudolf Höss and his family live next to the concentration camp. Despite the horrors surrounding them, the Höss family tries to maintain a sense of normalcy.
One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the character of the unnamed Polish girl, who plants food for prisoners under the cover of night. Her actions are a testament to the power of human goodness, and her dedication to helping others is inspiring. In contrast, Klaus Höss, the commandant’s son, is fascinated by the suffering of others, showcasing the darker side of human nature.
Glazer’s intention is to highlight the extremes of human behavior, rather than sparking controversy. By presenting unexplained motivations and backstories, he encourages audiences to ponder their own response to the environment and their inherent nature. The two children, the unnamed girl and Klaus, represent the good and evil within everyone, leaving viewers to wonder which side they would choose.
A Still From The Zone of Interest (Via IMDB)
The most intriguing moment in the film is a subtlety, a whisper from six-year-old Hans, who tells a prisoner not to resist anymore. This dialogue can be interpreted in different ways, leaving the audience to draw their own conclusions. Does Hans simply want to maintain the status quo or is he showing compassion towards the prisoner? This ambiguity sparks introspection, encouraging viewers to consider their own response to adversity.
The use of children as characters adds a layer of complexity to the film. It is as if Glazer is presenting a possible future for humanity, emphasizing the choice between being good or succumbing to evil. The film’s themes are not meant to be lecture-like, but rather a gentle nudge towards introspection. Glazer is not preaching or lecturing, but rather presenting a reality that can be changed, making the children the most intriguing characters of all.
The Zone of Interest is available to stream on Max in the U.S.
