It is amazing to me that so much is told within less than thirty minutes of film. The performances are excellent, the cinematography outstanding, the script and pacing near perfect and a score that contributes without making itself obvious. As for the story itself, the "Death and the Maiden" reference is well-played. Though you know the ending is inevitable, Sophie's coming acceptance is both believable and graceful. Her guard's inner torment and guilt are heart-breaking and yet you can see how committed he is to both his professionalism and with treating the inmates under his control with dignity and compassion. The only comparison I can make is of one of those rare and wonderful short stories you come across from time to time that tell of one incident, one encounter, in so short a form as to be like a tiny diamond. Brilliant and moving.
Review of A Better Place Than This
