As a longtime pacifist myself, I will admit to being captivated by the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German Lutheran pastor, neo-orthodox theologian, and avowed anti-Nazi dissident whose vocal opposition to Hitler's euthanasia program and genocide of Jews led to his 1943 arrest. Eventually, he was accused of being associated with the well known plot to assassinate Hitler and was executed on April 9, 1945 just as the Nazi regime was in its collapse. 

Written and directed by Todd Komarnicki and released by Angel Studios, Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin has already had its share of controveries (somewhat par for the course for Angel) and while I'd dispute some of the film's positions I can't help but also appreciate the film and its accomplished. 

I must also appreciate, I must say, Jonas Dassler's absolutely top-notch performance as Bonhoeffer. 

It would be nearly impossible to watch the Bonhoeffer story without being deeply moved. By his mid-20's, Bonhoeffer had both a doctorate in theology and was an ordained Lutheran minister. It would be Hitler's rise to power and the spread of Nazism that would come to define his life, first as he staunchly defended the church against Hitler's political influence and further as he began actively aiding Jews and more. At an over two hour running time, Bonhoeffer is clearly aiming to cover the fullness of Bonhoeffer's life. Komarnicki, perhaps best known for his writing of Clint Eastwood's Sully, takes the non-linear route and journeys, at times not so successfully, back-and-forth through a remarkable history that included attending Union Seminary in New York.  The remarkable details of Hitler's ascent aren't often reported in favor of that ascension's more dramatic elements, however, Bonhoeffer leans into the Third Reich's heavy influence on teh church and removal of the Jewish Bible and ritual in favor of a Nazi-tinged Bible that demanded adherence. 

For those unfamiliar with Bonhoeffer, this film serves as a worthy introduction to the extraordinary man. Bonhoeffer's courage is unquestionable, his steadfast fight and outspoken ways remarkable at a time when there were so few being outspoken. Scenes of Bonhoeffer with fellow pastor Martin Niemoller (August Diehl) inspire tremendously as do scenes with Bonhoeffer and his brother-in-law Hans (Flula Borg). While Komarnicki can't possibly capture the true marvel that was Bonhoeffer's life, even with a 135-minute running time, Bonhoeffer gives up a deeper appreciation for a man whose faith was a faith worth dying for. 

While Dassler is absolutely the stand-out here, he's joined by a wonderful ensemble cast including Diehl as Niemoller, David Jonsson as Frank Fisher, and a host of others. Lensing by John Mathieson is effective throughout, a powerful weaving together of inspiration and gut-check drama. John Beard's production design is also tremendously effective as is the costume design of Chouchane Tcherpachian. 

While I have my quibbles with Bonhoeffer, it's yet another tremendously bold and impactful film from the folks at Angel Studios. Bonhoeffer lived a life worthy of closer examination and while this may not be the definitive piece on that life it's a remarkably effective and emotionally resonant introduction to a life powerfully lived and a faith that refused to compromise. Currently in theaters, Bonhoeffer is for sure a film best seen on the big screen. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic