Schindler’s List (1993)

Last updated:
October 9, 2024

Table of Contents

Detailed Summary

“Schindler’s List,” directed by Steven Spielberg, is a historical drama based on the true story of Oskar Schindler (Liam Neeson), a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand Polish Jews during the Holocaust. The film is adapted from the novel “Schindler’s Ark” by Thomas Keneally.

Rise of Oskar Schindler

The film begins with Oskar Schindler arriving in Krakow, Poland, seeking to profit from World War II. He is a member of the Nazi Party and uses his connections to acquire a factory to produce enamelware for the German military. Schindler hires Itzhak Stern (Ben Kingsley), a Jewish accountant, to help run the business.

The Krakow Ghetto

As the Nazis begin to systematically exterminate the Jewish population, Schindler’s factory becomes a haven for Jews. Stern helps Schindler recruit Jewish workers, arguing that their labor is essential to the war effort, thus saving them from deportation to concentration camps.

The Plaszow Camp

The film’s focus shifts to the Plaszow labor camp, run by the sadistic Amon Goeth (Ralph Fiennes). Goeth’s brutality is depicted in harrowing detail. Schindler befriends Goeth and uses bribery and charm to protect his workers. He becomes increasingly aware of the horrors of the Holocaust and begins to sympathize deeply with the Jews.

Schindler’s List

The pivotal moment comes when Schindler decides to save as many Jews as he can by transferring them to a new factory in Brunnlitz, Czechoslovakia. Stern prepares “Schindler’s List,” a roster of over a thousand Jews to be saved. Despite numerous obstacles, including a harrowing scene where the women on the list are mistakenly sent to Auschwitz, Schindler succeeds in relocating his workers.

Liberation

As the war ends, Schindler’s workers are liberated by Soviet troops. Schindler, now bankrupt, flees to avoid capture by the Allies. The film ends with a powerful scene where the surviving “Schindlerjuden” honor Schindler at his grave in Israel.

Movie Ending

The film concludes with a poignant scene where the real Schindlerjuden and their descendants visit Oskar Schindler’s grave in Jerusalem, placing stones on his grave as a sign of respect. This blend of the historical and the present emphasizes the lasting impact of Schindler’s actions.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Schindler’s List” does not have any post-credits scenes. The film ends with the emotional and powerful final sequence at Schindler’s grave.

Type of Movie

“Schindler’s List” is a historical drama and war film. It delves deeply into themes of humanity, sacrifice, and the horrors of the Holocaust. It is renowned for its realistic portrayal and emotional depth.

Cast

Liam Neeson as Oskar Schindler
Ben Kingsley as Itzhak Stern
Ralph Fiennes as Amon Goeth
Caroline Goodall as Emilie Schindler
Jonathan Sagall as Poldek Pfefferberg
Embeth Davidtz as Helen Hirsch

Film Music and Composer

The score for “Schindler’s List” was composed by John Williams. The music is hauntingly beautiful, with the main theme featuring violinist Itzhak Perlman. The score profoundly enhances the film’s emotional impact.

Filming Locations

“Schindler’s List” was filmed primarily in Poland, including:

Krakow: Various locations were used to depict the Krakow ghetto and Schindler’s factory.
Auschwitz-Birkenau: While actual filming at Auschwitz was limited, the recreated scenes were designed to be historically accurate.
Płaszów Labor Camp: Filmed on location to maintain authenticity.

These locations were essential in capturing the historical accuracy and emotional gravity of the story.

Awards and Nominations

“Schindler’s List” received numerous awards and nominations, including:

Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director (Steven Spielberg), Best Adapted Screenplay (Steven Zaillian), Best Original Score (John Williams), Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography (Janusz Kamiński), Best Film Editing (Michael Kahn)
Golden Globe Awards: Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, Best Screenplay
BAFTA Awards: Best Film, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor (Ralph Fiennes), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography

Behind the Scenes Insights

Interesting Incidents

Steven Spielberg almost abandoned the project several times due to its emotional weight but was convinced to continue by fellow directors like Martin Scorsese.
Ralph Fiennes gained significant weight to more accurately portray Amon Goeth’s physicality.

Director and Actor Experiences

Spielberg often found directing the film emotionally challenging and had Robin Williams call him to tell jokes to lift his spirits.
Liam Neeson’s portrayal of Schindler was highly praised for its depth and complexity, capturing the transformation from opportunistic businessman to humanitarian.

Inspirations and References

The film is based on Thomas Keneally’s novel “Schindler’s Ark,” which was inspired by the real-life story of Oskar Schindler. The novel and film draw heavily on historical records, survivor testimonies, and extensive research.

Deleted Scenes and Alternate Endings

Several scenes were trimmed or cut to maintain the film’s pacing and emotional impact. However, no significant alternate endings were filmed, as Spielberg aimed to stay true to historical events.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film closely follows Thomas Keneally’s “Schindler’s Ark.” The adaptation focuses on visual storytelling and emotional depth, while the book provides more detailed background and character insights.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

The Girl in the Red Coat: A powerful symbol of innocence amidst the horror of the Holocaust.
Auschwitz Sequence: The tension and relief when Schindler’s women are saved from Auschwitz.
Final Goodbye: Schindler’s emotional farewell to his workers, where he breaks down, lamenting that he could have saved more lives.

Iconic Quotes

“Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.” – Itzhak Stern
“The list is an absolute good. The list is life. All around its margins lies the gulf.” – Itzhak Stern
“This is your life and mine. What you choose to do with it, or not to do with it, is up to you.” – Oskar Schindler

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The girl in the red coat, one of the few color elements in the black-and-white film, symbolizes the innocence lost during the Holocaust.
Real-life survivors and their actors are shown together at Schindler’s grave in the final scene, adding authenticity and emotional resonance.

Trivia

Spielberg refused to take a salary for directing the film, considering it “blood money.”
The film’s black-and-white cinematography was a deliberate choice to reflect the historical period and the stark reality of the Holocaust.

Why Watch?

“Schindler’s List” is a profoundly moving and historically important film. It offers a stark depiction of the Holocaust, highlighting the impact one person can have in the face of unimaginable evil. Its powerful storytelling, outstanding performances, and emotional depth make it essential viewing.

Director’s Other Movies

Steven Spielberg is known for several acclaimed films, including:

Recommended Movies for Fans

The Pianist (2002): Another powerful Holocaust film based on the autobiography of pianist Władysław Szpilman.
Life is Beautiful (1997): A film that blends humor and tragedy in its depiction of the Holocaust.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008): A story of an unlikely friendship set against the backdrop of the Holocaust.

Schindler’s List (1993)