The Holocaust and its effects on humanity have been the topic of many books and films. Each survivor has a unique and wonderful, albeit terrifying, account of life before, during and after the Holocaust. To think that millions lost their homes and were forced to live in ghettos that probably rats would not even want to live in. To think that millions lost a "normal" life and forced to become sub-human...a goal their tormentors wanted but many resisted and found the strength to live. And then there were those who foresaw what was going to happen in Germany and Austria and left for Switzerland or America.
Such is the story of this wonderful film,
Woman in Gold with Helen Mirren and Ryan Reynolds. It is the story of Maria Altmann who was born in Austria. Her father was a man who made his wealth by working hard and enjoying the good things in life. With his wife he had two daughters, one of them Maria. Her father's brother and his wife, Aunt Adele, also lived in the same Vienna apartment. Her aunt could not have any children, so her husband bought beautiful paintings. His most prized painting was the one commissioned by modern artist Gustav Klimt. It is this now famous painting the story revolves.
When Austria was annexed by Germany, the plundering, torments and horrid conditions towards the Jews began. Shortly before this, Maria married. Her wedding was the best. As she states in the film, "half of Vienna was there." Once the Nazis were in Vienna her husband sought ways to leave. And the Nazis ransacked their home taking all the silverware, jewelry and the paintings. Maria and her husband escape and eventually come to America.
In Los Angeles 1998, Maria lives and has a clothing boutique. Her sister dies and Maria gets all her belongings. She finds letters about her aunt and the famous painting, now entitled "Woman in Gold."
She would like the painting back, but it is a prize of the Vienna Belvedere Museum. It is considered the Mona Lisa of Austria. Maria seeks the advice of a young lawyer, Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds). He knows nothing of laws regarding restitution of wartime victims and their property.
Both Maria and Randy develop a relationship of sorts and he fights for her cause, even when she gives up.
The film's topic, at least for me, taught me about the rights the survivors have in trying to get their property back. What happened to Maria and many families is beyond barbaric. "The fight for justice never ends" the poster proclaims- and it is probably going on today and not just for survivors of the European Holocaust, but for many who were unjustly "punished" for being what they were.
It's a film worth watching and Helen Mirren is a joy to watch. Her chemistry with Ryan Reynolds is wonderful. The film is beautifully done, even the flashbacks of the Nazi era are tastefully done. Consider watching this film.
