Son of Saul

Son of Saul

2015. Hungary. Directed by László Nemes. A daring and rigorous work of cinema, László Nemes's debut feature exposes the experience of Auschwitz from a perspective so intimate it is almost physical. Following the obsessive mission of a sonderkommando (Jewish forced-laborer/enforcer) in the camp seeking one last bit of dignity in a world devoid of humanity, Nemes displays virtuosic technical ability through his deployment of 35mm, narrow framing, vivid sound work, and liquid tracking shots. Son of Saul is as harrowing a viewing experience as is likely to be experienced. Winner of several awards at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival, including the Grand Jury Prize, Son of Saul is the Hungarian Academy Award submission for Best Foreign Language Film. Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics. 107 min.