In the landscape of World War II dramas, “White Bird: A Wonder Story” emerges as a film that attempts to capture the essence of resilience and hope amidst the backdrop of conflict. Drawing inevitable comparisons to similar works like “All the Light We Cannot See,” “White Bird” revisits the familiar territory of wartime France under the ominous shadow of Nazi occupation. This cinematic adaptation intertwines themes of love, familial bonds, and personal courage, and while it often teeters on the brink of becoming overly sentimental, it is Helen Mirren’s compelling portrayal of Grandmère Sara that keeps the narrative grounded and engaging.
The storyline of “White Bird” weaves itself intricately with its predecessor, 2017’s “Wonder.” It focusses on Julian (played by Bryce Gheisar), who finds himself in a new environment after being expelled for his unacceptable behavior towards Auggie, the protagonist of the earlier film. Choosing solitude as his armor, Julian’s strategy of remaining detached from others is met with skepticism by his Grandmère, Sara, portrayed by the indomitable Helen Mirren. Sensing his inner turmoil, she extends an olive branch of wisdom through recounting her own harrowing yet formative experiences during the war-torn era.
Set in 1942, young Sara (brought to life by Ariella Glaser) grows up in an idyllic village in France, untouched by the encroaching devastation of war. Her father, Max (played by Ishai Golan), practices as a doctor, and her mother, Rose (Olivia Ross), a mathematics professor, nurtures a comforting familial atmosphere. However, the reality of the Nazi occupation steadily seeps into their lives, starting subtly but evolving into an undeniable threat. As signs targeting Jewish communities become more commonplace, Rose’s job loss signifies an ominous turning point, making the suggestion to leave France all the more urgent. Max’s hesitation leads to unanticipated complications, and the once serene environment becomes fraught with danger.
Sara’s carefree existence, marked by joyous school days and innocent crushes on her charming classmate Vincent (Jem Matthews), receives a harsh interruption.
. The betrayal by Vincent, coupled with the increasingly oppressive environment at the hands of the Nazis, forces Sara to flee and take refuge in a place of last resort. In a testament to human compassion and bravery, she finds sanctuary with her classmate Julien (Orlando Schwerdt) and his parents, Vivienne (Gillian Anderson) and Jean Paul (Jo Stone-Fewings), who risk their own safety to shield her from imminent peril.
The film delves deep into the friendship that blossoms between Julien and Sara—two kindred spirits bound by circumstance. The conversations and dreams they share, whether about imaginary journeys to Paris and New York or school lessons clandestinely taught in the barn, offer a glimpse of normalcy amid chaos. However, dark clouds loom as Vincent’s malicious actions threaten to unravel the fragile sense of security those around Sara work to maintain.
Towards the film’s denouement, “White Bird” steps dangerously close to melodrama, flirting with theatrics reminiscent of vintage cinema but managing to regain its footing largely thanks to Helen Mirren’s strong performance. Her gravitas turns what could have been a predictable arc into an emotionally potent reflection on survival and regret. As Grandmère Sara’s tale culminates in a powerful speech during an art exhibition celebrating her work, the narrative underscores the profound impact of a singular life amidst the tapestry of history.
Visual aspects of the film, crafted with delicate artistry, present a landscape that is both picturesque and hauntingly bare. The serene sights of wolves traversing snowy expanses and barren, leafless trees evoke a mood befitting the story’s exploration of inner and outer battles.
While “White Bird: A Wonder Story” may not transcend the boundaries of its genre, it stands firm in delivering a heartfelt chronicle of courage against overwhelming odds. It’s now showing in theaters, ready to invite audiences into a tale of endurance and remembrance, elevated by Helen Mirren’s captivating performance and the youthful energy of its promising leads.
