The Boy in the Woods

The story is very well written and wonderfully acted. Knowing that it is true makes it that much more heartbreaking and touching. I'm shocked at reviews who complain that « these stories are overdone ».

It is the true story of a young jewish boy who was able to avoid capture by the nazis by surviving in the woods for nearly a year. He was initially helped by a farmer and later on befriended another boy in the woods when staying at the farm became too risky. The pair rely on each other during hardship but make the most of it by maintaining their playfulness and youth.

Set in what was then known as Poland (now a part of Ukraine) in 1944.

I had to write something because I was stunned at the low rating here on IMDB. The movie was for me waaaay better than current 5,4 stars (August 2024).

As fiction it would have not worked, but as it is a true story it hits differently. There are connections made to real life people and events. It's amazing what people have had to survive. And how little it takes to either continue or end generations. This is not a movie about atrocities of the Holocaust, altough they obviously are a the root of all that happens. I liked this one person survival perspective and this type of story that's rare in this context.

The boy lead does a wonderful job, as does his buddy in the film. There are some quite cliche types here and there, but then again I'm sure that's how they were, and I'll have to take in the film makers' vision.

I'm happy that I got to experience this story. Thank you. I will now research if I can find the documentary referenced at the end.

Jett Klyne plays "Max" a 12 year old boy who manages to escape a Nazi loading operation that takes his mother (Katherine Fogler (Faigie) and little sister off to be executed and mass buried in their hometown in Poland. He doesn't realize that until much later. He manages to find his way to a farm for awhile then out to the forest where he manages to survive off mushrooms, fish, berries and the occasional rabbit all the while doing his best to avoid Nazi colluders who are all searching for hidden Jews to get the reward. (Goes to show the depravity of mankind during this historic period) Nothing questionable, no violence but it is implied, no nudity. Lots of murder and dead bodies lying about rotting. It amazes me that this kind of thing is still going on now. Hopefully soon this will all stop for good. A fine watch and historical as well, the last bit has a piece with Max today visiting those who survived with him. Enjoy!

The story itself is one of tremendous hardship, bravery, and survival. For what appears to be a limited budget film the director is still able to deliver. There is no doubt that the acting leaves quite a bit to be desired. The costume design is not up to what you would expect and the camera shots are not good but acceptable.

Again, despite all its flaws the film stays on course and delivers its message. The ending scene where it shows the real life character for me adds so much to it all. Being able to see the human connection in real life added so much strength to the importance of the story and why it was essential that it was told. The saying "save one life, save the world" is played out in real time as you get to see the generations saved by one little boys brave decision and the sacrifice of others made to protect this life in a time of great danger.

The film is a powerful story of hope, resilience, and survival of the human spirit. There aren't many films about personal stories during the Holocaust let alone for those who were in situations outside of the camps. You can't simply dismiss it for not having as much action/climax as other films because it is based on a true story and adding exceedingly unnecessary plot devices and ideas takes away from the fact that this is the true-story of someone's fight for survival, especially as a child in an environment most adults couldn't handle in that era, let alone the 21st century. The film kept me on the edge of my seat and touched my heart in ways a fictional story never could have this genre. The actors, especially the main three did brilliantly and respected the actual persons they portrayed. The added bit post-ending with the actual survivor was a heartwarming bit which made the film all the more special. It is a well worth watching film.

The main stars, all three were excellent in the roles.