'The Boy in the Woods' Reviews: "Writer-director Rebecca Snow skilfully maintains the youthful perspective, which keeps the actual violence off-screen while giving everything a sharply matter-of-fact tone"

   

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

         On August 29, 2024, Menemsha Films releases 'The Boy in the Woods', which has earned rave reviews from critics so far, currently holding at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. The film "follows the true story of Max (Jett Klyne), a Jewish boy escaping Nazi persecution in Eastern Europe. After he is separated from his family, Max finds refuge with a Christian peasant Jasko (Richard Armitage) who hides him in plain site until a tense stand -- off with Nazi police. Afraid for his own family's life, Jasko sends Max to live in the woods where he learns to survive alone." The ensemble cast includes Christopher Heyerdahl, Ari Millen, and Tara Nicodemo. Read the full review round-up below.

        Leslie Felperin of Guardian notes, "This sweet if somewhat sentiment-and-string-section-forward Canadian film tells the true story of Max (Jett Klyne, impressive), a Jewish boy aged 12 from Warsaw, trying to evade capture during the second world war." Adding, "The film is rated 12, but if parents want to show it to kids younger than that at home, they may wish to follow the example of Phoebe’s parents in Friends who simply turned off famous tearjerker Old Yeller before it got to the end, lest she learn the tragic fate of the film’s eponymous dog. Nevertheless, a coda at the end featuring the real Max as an old man offers some hope, even if there’s something a little discomforting about that aforementioned final scene."

       Rich Cline of Shadows on the Wall says, "Writer-director Rebecca Snow skilfully maintains the youthful perspective, which keeps the actual violence off-screen while giving everything a sharply matter-of-fact tone." Concluding, "Young Klyne has terrific screen presence in a demanding role, portraying a sharp boy who is observant and thoughtful. His quietly methodical approach, even in the most nightmarish situation, is inspiring and even powerful. Through his eyes, other characters come and go, with Armitage and Lizdek registering strongly, as does Shauna Snow in a smaller role as a quick-thinking local. These are compassionate people in a place that is otherwise full of hate. The filmmakers don't add much here beyond dramatising a true-life story, relying on the realities of the war and the waves of emotions that generates, rather than looking for present-day resonance. And the approach is clearly based on a memoir, so outside context is minimal. But the details of this account are remarkable, and they are dramatised with skill. There's also a documentary epilogue featuring the real Max Smartthat ties up a loose in a seriously beautiful way."

       Liz Braun of Original Cin praises the film, stating, "It’s not perfect but this adaptation of Maxwell Smart’s bestseller about his childhood escape from Nazis is powerful thanks to a star turn by Jett Klyne."

       Romey Norton of Film Focus Online writes, "The Boy in the Woods is not only moving, but serves as an important reminder of how devastating war is, especially to innocent children. A must watch." Continuing, "The cinematography is gloomy and grim; really forcing the feelings of poverty, sadness and hopelessness. The scenes become lighter when Max is happier or reliving a memory, telling a story, and this is very effective in playing with the emotions of the audience. Klyne strongly carries the film, and has some very emotional moments which will stay with you as a viewer. However the acting is compelling, especially for two young actors. Kylne and Armitage share a powerful scene towards the end of the film which moved me to tears."