“Sarah’s Key”
4 out of 5 stars

Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama, War

Instead of going to the movies this week, why not cuddle up in a blanket and rent one?
“Sarah’s Key” is based on the stunning novel “Sarah’s Key,” written by Tatiana De Rosnay. It tells the story of a modern day French lady journalist who finds herself entwined with a young girl named Sarah Starzynski, whose family was ripped apart during the tragic events during the Vel’ d’Hiv Round-up in 1942.
This was an event during the Holocaust, when nearly 11,000 Jewish followers were locked into an arena for two days. Out of those 11,000, 4,000 of them were children.
After those few days with no food, water and freedom, they are taken to a camp, where they are split up to be sent to Auschwitz.
When I was watching this film, I only found one flaw from the book. It is crazy rushing. The movie goes too fast and leaves out some key parts from the book.
Be aware that most of the film is subtitled. Due to the fact it is a French event, most of the movie is in French. But at times, it’s in English.
The film gives a taste on both sides of the tale, the 1942 side, and the modern day side.
In 1942, you get a strong feeling for the little girl, Sara Starzynski, who locks her brother up in order to prevent him from having to go with her. Sarah goes through many events trying to get back to her brother to save him.
Then there is the story of Julia Jarmond, the journalist who is doing a report and goes all around the world trying to find out more information on the Starzynski family.
I find the movie at times difficult to watch due to the realistic facts, but we soon realize this is sadly true. The book is not based on a true family, but the events are real and scary.
I want to applaud the performances of the actors. When they are going through these brutal events, I felt like I was also with them. If you are a dramatic person, maybe bring some tissues, because some of the images or stories may get to you.
Like I said, this movie has little popularity, but I think it deserves to be viewed by everyone. It gives you everything you want in a movie: action, drama, romance and even horror.
“Sarah’s Key” is a beautiful film and amazing book. You can find this movie on NetFlix and possibly at a local movie store. Do not miss out, but remember this while watching: This did happen.