A Hidden Life Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A stubborn Austrian farmer refuses to say ‘Heil Hitler,’ leading to a really long, visually stunning, but ultimately depressing series of unfortunate events for him and his family.

🍿 A Hidden Life: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Life in St. Radegund

Franz Jägerstätter lives a peaceful life in the Austrian village of St. Radegund with his wife, Fani, and their daughters. They are devout Catholics and valued members of their close-knit community. The film initially depicts a harmonious existence centered around family, faith, and farming, set against the backdrop of the stunning Austrian Alps.

The Rising Tide of Nazism

As World War II escalates, the shadow of Nazism begins to creep into St. Radegund. Franz becomes increasingly troubled by the growing acceptance of Hitler and the Nazi ideology within his village. He grapples with his conscience as he witnesses the erosion of moral values and the suppression of dissent.

Franz’s Refusal

When Franz is called for military service, he refuses to swear an oath of allegiance to Hitler. This act of defiance sets him apart from his community and brings condemnation from his neighbors, who fear the consequences of his actions. Despite the pressure, Franz remains steadfast in his conviction that he cannot support an evil regime.

Imprisonment and Trial

Franz is arrested and imprisoned, facing brutal conditions and relentless pressure to recant his beliefs. He endures physical and psychological abuse but refuses to compromise his principles. Meanwhile, Fani and their daughters face ostracism and hardship in St. Radegund, struggling to maintain their livelihood and their faith.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Franz Jägerstätter (August Diehl): An Austrian farmer who refuses to fight for the Nazis during World War II due to his moral and religious convictions.
• Fani Jägerstätter (Valerie Pachner): Franz’s loving and supportive wife who faces ostracism from their community due to his refusal to support the Nazi regime.
• Resie Schwaninger (Maria Simon): Fani’s sister who provides support and understanding during the family’s difficult times.
• Fr. Fürthauer (Tobias Moretti): The local priest who attempts to persuade Franz to reconsider his stance for the sake of his family and community.
• Judge Lueben (Bruno Ganz): The judge who presides over Franz’s trial and questions the validity of his individual choice against the state.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Franz: “I can’t do what I know is wrong.” – Franz says this to a solicitor in prison, explaining why he cannot pledge loyalty to Hitler despite the consequences.
• Judge Lueben: “Do you have a right to do this?” – The judge questions Franz’s right to defy the state, challenging the legitimacy of his conscientious objection.
• Franz: “Do I have a right not to?” – Franz responds to the judge, questioning whether he has the right to refuse to do something he believes is morally wrong.
• Bishop Fliesser: “If God gives us free will, then we are responsible for what we do and what we don’t do.” – The Bishop explains to Franz the consequences of not following the rules during wartime.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $19 million
• Domestic Gross: $1.7 million
• Worldwide Gross: $4.6 million

💥 A Hidden Life Reviews

Personal Review

This movie wrecked me, in the best possible way. I knew going in it would be a slow burn, but the beauty of the Austrian landscapes combined with the heart-wrenching story of Franz and Fani completely captivated me. August Diehl and Valerie Pachner are incredible. The scene where Fani has to face the villagers after Franz is imprisoned? Gut-wrenching. Be prepared to cry, but also to be inspired.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Terrence Malick’s films”
  • “Viewers interested in historical dramas and war movies”
  • “Those who appreciate thought-provoking stories about faith and conscience”
  • “Individuals seeking films with beautiful cinematography and profound themes”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence and war-related imagery”
  • “Themes of religious persecution and moral conflict”
  • “Mature themes may not be suitable for younger viewers”
  • “Scenes of imprisonment and physical abuse”

Professional Reviews

• The Hollywood Reporter: “Malick returns with a powerful and visually arresting story of faith and conviction. The film’s deliberate pace and introspective nature might not appeal to everyone, but its exploration of moral courage is undeniably compelling and thought-provoking. August Diehl and Valerie Pachner deliver deeply moving performances.
• Variety: “Terrence Malick crafts a visually stunning and spiritually profound film. The film’s meditation on faith, freedom, and the price of conviction is both timeless and timely. While the film’s length might test some viewers, its beauty and emotional depth are undeniable.
• RogerEbert.com: “A Hidden Life is a challenging but ultimately rewarding cinematic experience. Malick’s unique visual style and contemplative approach create a deeply immersive and moving portrait of a man of unwavering faith. While the film’s pacing requires patience, its themes of morality and sacrifice resonate deeply.

Audience Reactions

The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the beauty and isolation of the Austrian Alps.: Viewers consistently praise the film’s stunning visuals and powerful performances.

The film’s exploration of faith and moral courage resonates deeply with many viewers.: Many feel it is thought-provoking and raises important questions about standing up for one’s beliefs.

Overall Consensus: A visually stunning and emotionally powerful film about faith, courage, and the price of conviction, though its length and deliberate pace may not appeal to all viewers.

Awards

1. Cannes Film Festival (Prize of the Ecumenical Jury)- 2019

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Terrence Malick spent almost three years editing this film, reflecting his meticulous approach to filmmaking.”
• “The film incorporates a blend of English, German, and Italian languages, aiming for authenticity without relying heavily on subtitles.”
• “Malick met with Franz Jägerstätter’s surviving daughters, who were in their 80s and still living near the village where the story took place, to gain deeper insights into the family’s life.”

🖥️ How to Watch A Hidden Life?

A Hidden Life is available to rent or purchase on platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Prime Video. Check local listings for potential streaming availability, as services like Hulu or Netflix may occasionally offer it as part of their rotating content.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed A Hidden Life, you might like these similar films:

• Sophie Scholl: The Final Days (2005): A direct comparison, detailing the true story of a young woman’s courageous stand against the Nazi regime and her subsequent execution.
• The Tree of Life (2011): Shares thematic similarities with Malick’s other works, exploring faith, family, and the search for meaning in a troubled world.
• The Thin Red Line (1998): Also directed by Malick, this explores the human cost and moral ambiguities of World War II, though in a different theater of war.
• Unbroken (2014): A thematic parallel showing a man’s resilience and unwavering spirit while enduring harsh conditions as a prisoner of war.
• Ida (2013): Presents a stark and contemplative exploration of faith, identity, and moral choice in the face of historical trauma, similar to the introspective nature of ‘A Hidden Life’.

🛒 A Hidden Life Related Products

• A Hidden Life (Blu-ray): Own the stunning visual masterpiece in high definition with bonus content, offering behind-the-scenes insights and interviews. Experience the film’s beauty and emotional depth in the best possible quality.
• Middlemarch by George Eliot: Read the George Eliot novel that inspired the title of A Hidden Life. Delve deeper into the themes of hidden lives and unsung acts of goodness with this digital download.
• Poster – A Hidden Life: A high-quality print showcasing the film’s stunning poster art. A must-have for fans who want to display their love for the movie.
• A Hidden Life: Franz Jägerstätter: Letters and Writings from Prison: Explore the actual writing of Franz Jägerstätter. A must read for any history or film buff.

🎧 Soundtrack

A Hidden Life features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “St Matthew Passion, BWV 244, Kommt, ihr Töchter” – performed by Johann Sebastian Bach
• “Theme from A Hidden Life” – performed by James Newton Howard
• “Various Classical Compositions” – performed by Handel, Dvorak, and Others

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

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