6 Powerful Movies About the Holocaust to Watch and Reflect On

Where to watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, FlixFling, Spectrum On Demand

"Schindler's List" is a powerful film about Oskar Schindler. He is a German businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during the Holocaust. Set in Nazi-occupied Poland, the movie shows how Schindler starts as a war profiteer. He becomes a hero by using his factory to protect Jewish workers from the Nazis. The film is known for its emotional impact and black-and-white style. This film won seven Academy Awards and is often considered one of the greatest films ever made.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, Peacock, The Roku Channel, Fandango at Home

"The Pianist" tells the true story of Władysław Szpilman. He is a Jewish pianist living in Warsaw during World War II. As the Nazis take control, Szpilman loses his family and must hide to survive. The film shows his struggle and strength during this time. It highlights how he uses music to cope with the horrors around him. Directed by Roman Polanski, who survived the Holocaust, the film won three Academy Awards. It is praised for its powerful performances and realistic portrayal of life during wartime.

Where to watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

"Life Is Beautiful" is a mix of comedy and tragedy. It follows Guido, an Italian Jewish man who uses humor to protect his son. They are in a concentration camp during World War II. Guido creates a game to keep his son happy despite their difficult situation. The film is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. It shows how love and imagination can help in dark times. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film, and is loved for its touching story.

Where to watch: fuboTV, Peacock, The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, Shout! Factory TV, Free Movies Plus, Fandango At Home, Amazon Video, Apple TV

"Sophie's Choice" tells the story of Sophie, a Polish survivor of a Nazi camp. She struggles with her painful past throughout the film. Sophie faces impossible choices that haunt her for life. The film explores themes of guilt, love, and sacrifice, making it an emotional experience for viewers. Meryl Streep's performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. This film remains impactful for its exploration of human suffering during the Holocaust.

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Fandango At Home

Based on Anne Frank's real diary, this film tells her story. Anne is a young Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II. She shares her thoughts and dreams while living in a small space with her family and others. The film captures her spirit and hope despite their fear. It reminds us of the innocence lost during this tragic time. This version of Anne's story stays true to her voice.

Where to watch: HBO Max, Criterion Channel

"Europa Europa" is based on Solomon Perel's true story. He is a Jewish boy who survives by pretending to be German during World War II. He joins the Hitler Youth to escape danger but struggles with his identity throughout his journey. The film highlights themes of survival and deception during terrible times. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, making it an important part of Holocaust cinema.