Fugitive Pieces

Being Greek and part Jew I would have loved to like this movie more. As others have noticed the beginning is much stronger. The second half dissolves in layers of sentimentality.

This has been my favourite film of all time for several years. It tells the tale of Jacob, a young Jewish boy in Poland who, during WWII, barely escaped with his life from the Nazis, who stormed his family home. Hiding behind a false wall in the kitchen, he heard his parents being shot and killed, and his older sister Bella being dragged away. After the soldiers had left, he ran into the woods, distraught and traumatized. He is found in the woods by a Greek archeologist, buried under some leaves, barely clinging to life. He escapes Poland with the boy, and returns to Greece, where he adopts him. As a middle aged man living in Canada, Jacob is still haunted by his memories, his lingering childhood trauma and sense of loss. Until he finds someone who connects with him, who yearns to understands him, and what he has been through. Someone who 'undresses his spirit', as it were. The movie deals with the subject of sorrow and loss, and the value of human connections. Although it starts off with a melancholic feel, the story deepens and unfolds to become one of hope and healing. It is woven together really well, as it transitions from his life in Canada to his childhood in Poland and later Greece. The musical score is hauntingly beautiful, and there is an amazing depth and substance to it all. Jacob as a child (played by Robbie Kay) is absolutely superb, and he is very ably assisted by the masterful Serbian/Croatian actor Rade Šerbedžija. A must-watch.

Started Out Good but Quicky bombed.

A compelling story told by one man of his thoughts, feelings and haunting dreams from his past which interferes with his present until a dream sends him into reality and his future, a future of happiness.

Beautiful and moving story from a brilliant book. Well crafted, emotionally impacting, serious film making.

A touching plot, the scenario set in a beautiful greek island and the interpretation of Rade Sherbedgia as the greek Athos makes this movie a very pleasant experience that missed to become a much more well known (and prized) due to the lack of big names in its cast

I remember loving the book. Loved the film too.

A journey worthwhile taking.. beautiful film crafting

Well done I suppose but left me feeling like there was something missing.

Just started watching this movie. I am on a Rosamund Pike kick this week.