"Der brave Soldat Schwejk" is a West German 90-minute movie from the year 1950. The director is Axel von Ambesser and the writer who adapted Jaroslav Hasek's novel is Hans Jacoby who worked on other films with Heinz Rühmann as well. And now I mentioned him again, after I also said his name in the title. This film is a showpiece of Rühmann's unique talent to bring necessary gravity and a slightly comedic touch to important roles and characters. Schwejk is the perfect example for this approach and the role seems made for him. He owns the screen from start to finish and carries it nicely. I also think this is one of the best-written Rühmann movies. The screenplay is indeed very smart. And most importantly, it includes a wonderfully pacifist message that is still oh so true more than half a century later. Rühmann was already in his late 50s when he made this film, so it's far from his early years and at that point he may have been the biggest film star Germany had to offer after transitioning successfully from comedy to drama without losing his subtle funny touch. What else is there to say. The movie is deserving of all the accolades it received, such as the Silver Globe. A must-see for everybody who loves war-themed films that focus more on the people and characters than on the military attacks. I certainly recommend the watch.
Review of The Good Soldier Schweik
