If you search for “Sir Nicholas Winton TV show” on Google, you’ll find a 1988 episode of the BBC talk show “That’s Life” where the man who orchestrated the rescue of around 669 children during World War II was recognized. The host revealed to him that a woman in the audience had been saved by his actions. This heartwarming moment was captured on camera as around two dozen people stood up when asked if they owed their lives to Nicholas Winton.
The emotional impact of this iconic television moment is evident in its staggering 42 million views. The remarkable story behind this event is now portrayed in the inspiring and sentimental biographical film “One Life.”
In this prestigious British biopic, Anthony Hopkins delivers a stellar performance as the older Nicholas Winton in the late 1980s, while Johnny Flynn skillfully portrays the younger Winton in the flashback sequences set in the late 1930s. Director James Hawes, along with screenwriters Lucinda Coxon and Nick Drake, masterfully weave between the tense scenes in 1930s Europe and the later years of Nicholas Winton’s life, creating a poignant narrative.
“One Life” exudes the essence of a classic biopic, complete with visual transitions, a stirring musical score by Oscar-winning composer Volker Bertelmann (Hauschka), and occasionally overt messaging in the dialogue. However, the story of “The British Oskar Schindler” deserves this respectful treatment, with Anthony Hopkins embodying the role with his usual brilliance.
The film begins with Hopkins’ Nicholas enjoying retirement in Maidenhead, England, in 1987, nudged by his wife Grete (played by Lena Olin) to confront his past and decide the fate of a scrapbook containing memories of the children he saved from the Nazis. The narrative then shifts to 1938, introducing Johnny Flynn as the determined young Nicholas Winton, who embarks on a mission to rescue Jewish Czech children amidst the looming threat of Hitler’s invasion.
Winton’s collaboration with aid organizations and his relentless efforts to secure the evacuation of hundreds of children, despite facing immense risks, form the core of the narrative. The film expertly captures the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by Winton and his colleagues, reminiscent of the sacrifices made during that tumultuous period.
Similar to Schindler, Winton grapples with the weight of the lives he couldn’t save, adding layers of complexity to his character. The performances by Flynn and Hopkins beautifully capture the essence of a man driven by compassion and haunted by his past.
The film meticulously follows the true events leading up to the poignant TV show moment, showcasing Hopkins’ unparalleled acting prowess even at the age of 86. “One Life” stands as a testament to Hopkins’ enduring talent and cements his legacy as one of the greatest actors in cinematic history.