I saw it last night, based mostly on your review/recommendation and the trailer, which I had seen before. It is indeed a remarkable and powerful film. I agree that the first 2/3 of the movie is relatively slow, but powerful nonetheless in seeing the 8 year old boy's perspective and his increasing exposure and understanding (albeit limited) of what was going on at the camp and what his father was responsible for. The family dynamics and conflict were also well done I thought.
I did not see the end coming. It is certainly unique and moving, without saying more. And very emotional. My girlfriend was still crying more than an hour after the movie ended. Although I think that was a combination of the emotion of the movie's ending and the subject matter in general.
Personally, I did not walk out of the movie feeling quite the same emotional response as I did when I first saw Life is Beautiful, and therefore didn't feel like I enjoyed it as much. However, I think The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is an incredible movie and would strongly recommend it to anyone.
Thanks for the excellent review and recommendation.
Singler is IRON
I STILL GOT IT! -- Ryan Kelly, March 2, 2013