The List, Reelive

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

You can't save them all.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

You think that's how this works? These are not people! They are vermin.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

They have names. They have families.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

They're less than that! They are nothing but a burden.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

It's not your choice to make.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

I make the choices here, Schindler.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Then make the right choice. Save them.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

And why should I? What do I gain?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

You gain a piece of your humanity.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

Humanity? In this world?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Yes, even in this world.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

You are a fool!

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

A fool who wants to save lives.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

And I want to see them suffer.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Then you truly do not understand what you're doing.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

And you think you do?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I know I want to help.

Amon Goeth
Amon Goeth

You are an idealist.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

And you are a monster.

The Listing, Reelive

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I have the list.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

The list? You're bringing them hope.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Names are hope, Stern.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

This is what you have done for them.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

No, it’s what they have done for themselves.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

You made this possible.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

And I will continue to do so.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

You risk your life, Schindler.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I risk something far greater than my life.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

What can be greater?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

The burden of guilt for not acting.

In the Factory, Reelive

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

You are not just workers; you are my family.

Jewish Worker
Jewish Worker

But we are afraid.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Afraid of what?

Jewish Worker
Jewish Worker

Of being taken away. Of disappearing.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I promise you, I will not let that happen.

Jewish Worker
Jewish Worker

How can we trust you?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Because I am fighting for you.

Jewish Worker
Jewish Worker

You risk everything.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

What is life if I do not stand for it?

Final Moments, Reelive

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I could have done more.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

You saved many lives.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Not enough. I could have saved more.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

You saved them when others would not.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

But more could have been saved.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

You cannot change the past.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

But I can regret it.

Itzhak Stern
Itzhak Stern

Your regret speaks on behalf of those you saved.

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I have no choice now but to carry this burden.

The Bargain, Reelive

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

I want to buy this factory, and I want to hire Jews.

Nazi Official
Nazi Official

Why would you want to employ them?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Because they are cheap labor.

Nazi Official
Nazi Official

And what else?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

They’re skilled; they work hard.

Nazi Official
Nazi Official

And you plan to keep them safe?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Safe? In this time? Yes, safe!

Nazi Official
Nazi Official

What’s in it for me?

Oskar Schindler
Oskar Schindler

Money. And possibly a legacy.

Oskar Schindler

The list is an absolute good. The list is life.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

I could have gotten more out. I could have gotten more. I don't know if I just got one more person... for the list.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Amon Goeth

I have to show them I’m not a monster.

Amon Goeth

Schindler's List, Reelive
Amon Goeth

This is what I want. I want your soul. I want it to be the soul of my people.

Amon Goeth

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

The world is not a wish-granting factory.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Hans Frank

It’s not my problem. You’re all Jewish. You’re not my people.

Hans Frank

Schindler's List, Reelive
Amon Goeth

I’m not a monster. I’m a man.

Amon Goeth

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

If you want to be a leader, you do not need to be a monster.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

Power is when we have every justification to kill, and we don’t.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

I’m sorry. I have to go. I can’t leave you here.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Schindler’s Jewish Workers

The problem is that the rest of the world won’t admit it.

Schindler’s Jewish Workers

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

You have to be willing to make sacrifices.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Schindler’s Jewish Workers

There are no words that can explain this.

Schindler’s Jewish Workers

Schindler's List, Reelive
A Jewish Worker

What was he trying to prove? That he was in charge?

A Jewish Worker

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

It’s 1:30, I can’t believe how late it is.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

I am proud of what I did.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

This will be worth something one day.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

You have to have hope.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
Oskar Schindler

There is no way to describe this pain.

Oskar Schindler

Schindler's List, Reelive
A Jewish Worker

Help me, please. I’m begging for your help.

A Jewish Worker

Schindler's List, Reelive

Theme from Schindler's List

Theme from Schindler's List by John Williams, Main theme used throughout the film


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The Girl in the Red Coat

In this scene, Oscar Schindler watches the chaos and horror of the Kraków ghetto. Amidst the black-and-white visual storytelling, a little girl in a bright red coat stands out, walking through the devastation. This stark color contrast highlights her innocence and vulnerability amidst the tragedy. The moment becomes pivotal as Schindler realizes the real impact of the atrocities happening around him. He later learns that she does not survive, which weighs heavily on him.

Context: This scene is crucial as it symbolizes the loss of innocence and the sheer horror of the Holocaust. It acts as a catalyst for Schindler’s transformation from a war profiteer to a savior of lives.

The Liquidation of the Ghetto

The rounding up of Jews in the Kraków ghetto is visceral and chaotic. The fear and desperation of the people are palpable as they are forced out of their homes, with soldiers shooting anyone who resists. This brutal display of power and dehumanization marks a turning point in Schindler's character, stirring a deep moral conflict within him.

Context: The depth of suffering seen in this scene triggers Schindler's awakening and commitment to saving as many lives as he can. The despair is mirrored in the faces of the families, showcasing the tragedy of their plight.

The Plight of the Jews at Plaszow

Schindler visits the Plaszow labor camp, where he sees the harsh treatment of Jewish prisoners. The ruthless commandant Amon Goeth coldly executes a worker for being late. Schindler's horror at witnessing such brutality is evident as he grapples with the lengths people will go to for power and control.

Context: This firsthand experience of cruelty ignites Schindler's urgency to act, pushing him further into the resistance against the Nazi regime. It emphasizes the film's themes of human rights and moral obligation.

Schindler's Decision

After witnessing the horrors at Plaszow and realizing the fate of the Jews, Schindler decides to use his factory as a means of saving Jewish lives. This moment marks a significant shift in his purpose, showcasing a classic hero's journey as he begins to put his wealth toward good.

Context: This scene demonstrates Schindler's evolving character. He moves from indifference to active compassion, setting the stage for his subsequent actions that will save many lives.

The List

The creation of Schindler's List is a powerful moment as he scribbles down the names of those he intends to save. Each name represents a life, a family, and a future. The scene is charged with urgency and emotional weight, showing the immense responsibility he feels in trying to protect these individuals.

Context: This list symbolizes hope amidst despair. It reflects the theme of individuality in a time when people are seen as mere numbers and highlights Schindler's commitment to fighting against the loss of humanity.

The Train Scene

As Jews are being transported to concentration camps on cattle trains, the fear and turmoil are overwhelming. Schindler is desperately trying to save as many people as he can, leading to emotional chaos as he confronts the reality of what awaits them. The desperation and helplessness in this moment resonate deeply.

Context: This scene emphasizes the horrific conditions faced by the Jews and shows Schindler's growing resolve to rescue them, emphasizing the themes of survival, bravery, and sacrifice.

Amon Goeth’s Cruelty

A chilling scene unfolds as Amon Goeth coldly shoots a Jewish prisoner from his balcony for sport. This act not only showcases his sadistic nature but also serves as a stark reminder of the devaluation of life during the Holocaust. Schindler’s discomfort with Goeth’s actions signals the moral battle within him.

Context: Goeth’s cruelty highlights the extreme inhumanity of the time, prompting Schindler to confront his own values and deepening his resolve to save the Jewish people from such brutality.

The Ghetto Uprising

During the ghetto uprising, chaos erupts as the Jews fight back, creating a powerful display of defiance and desperation. Despite the overwhelming odds, their courage is palpable. Schindler’s internal struggle becomes more intense, torn between self-preservation and the desire to protect those around him.

Context: This scene captures the horrific circumstances that drove people to fight back. It pushes Schindler further into his role as a protector, reinforcing the themes of resistance and the human spirit amidst despair.

The Warehouse Scene

In a tense moment, Schindler manages to save hundreds by relocating them to a safer location. The weight of his actions sinks in as he realizes just how many lives are depending on him. The scene is filled with emotional intensity as workers react with gratitude and disbelief.

Context: This moment marks the crystallization of Schindler's transformation from a businessman to a humanitarian, highlighting the profound impact one individual can have on a community amidst horror.

Emotional Farewell

Schindler bids farewell to the Jews he saved as they prepare to leave for safety. Emotions run high, filled with tears, gratitude, and profound sadness. This bittersweet farewell underscores the fragility of life and the depth of human connection forged in the face of adversity.

Context: The emotional weight of this goodbye symbolizes the lasting impact of Schindler's actions, intertwining hope with the sorrow of those he could not save.

The Final Scene

In the film’s closing moments, Schindler reflects on the lives lost and the lives saved. Surrounded by the survivors at his grave, they lay stones in remembrance and gratitude. Schindler’s tears symbolize the heavy price of his mission, blending grief with the bittersweet memories of those he protected.

Context: This powerful ending ties back to the themes of sacrifice and redemption. It pulls the audience into an emotional contemplation of remembrance and the value of human life.

The Killing of Innocents

In a horrifically emotional scene, various innocent Jews are rounded up and executed. Their pleas for mercy and the brutal indifference of the soldiers mark a peak in the film’s emotional intensity, driving home the brutal realities of the Holocaust.

Context: This moment starkly contrasts the fragility of life with the cruelty of man, serving as a grim reminder of the atrocities committed, and urging the audience to reflect on these truths.

The Betrayal

Schindler’s trust is tested as someone he relied on betrays him. This betrayal adds layers of complexity to the narrative, pushing Schindler to reassess who he can trust in these turbulent times. Feelings of frustration and betrayal fill the air, marking a significant emotional low.

Context: The betrayal escalates the tension and emphasizes the prevalent theme of trust and loyalty during challenging circumstances, impacting Schindler's ability to save more lives.

The Wait in Fear

As the Jewish people await their fate in a holding area, there is palpable fear and anxiety. Family members cling to each other in uncertainty, fully aware of the precariousness of their situation. The moments feel eternally stretched, showcasing the emotional toll of living in constant fear.

Context: This scene represents the human experience during the Holocaust, highlighting the anxiety and psychological trauma endured, furthering the film’s commentary on the human condition.

The Spiritual Awakening

Schindler is visited by his future wife, who reminds him of his moral obligations. This interaction sparks a profound moment of self-reflection for him, showcasing his inner turmoil and the struggle between profit and principle.

Context: The dialogue accentuates Schindler's journey toward moral consciousness and adds depth to his character by showcasing his internal conflict.

The Fragility of Life

As Schindler watches the horror unfold, he is struck by the realization of how easily life can be extinguished. His emotional breakdown reflects the weight of responsibility he now bears, capturing the profound sadness and frustration he feels.

Context: This scene underscores the themes of life, death, and moral duty, as Schindler grapples with the reality of what it means to be human in such dire circumstances.

The Countless Sacrifices

In a sweeping montage, we witness the sacrifices made by Schindler and his workers. The emotional weight crescendos, showcasing the collective sense of survival, unity, and the cost of their freedom.

Context: This sequence reinforces the film’s message of hope and resilience, illustrating the sacrifices made in the face of unimaginable adversity.

A Moment of Dread

A sudden moment of dread falls over the group as they realize they may face execution. Fear mounts, and emotional tension heightens, showcasing the dire situation of the Jewish people. Schindler's resolve strengthens as he competes against the clock to save them.

Context: This scene amplifies the stakes, threading tension throughout the narrative and propelling Schindler into taking immediate action.

The Injustice of Refuge

A powerful scene unfolds as Schindler pushes against the wall of bureaucracy to secure a safe haven for the Jews. The frustration felt by him and the individuals he seeks to save mirrors the larger struggle against oppression.

Context: This moment stands as a symbol for the uphill battle against injustice and highlights Schindler’s determination, reinforcing the film’s theme of moral resistance.

The Bond of Humanity

An unexpected connection develops between Schindler and the Jews he seeks to save, particularly as he shares meals with them. This bond looks past the horror and emphasizes shared humanity, adding depth to the story.

Context: This interaction strengthens the film’s message about the power of solidarity, empathy, and the human spirit even in times of darkness.

The Price of Gold

Schindler is often seen negotiating with Nazi officials to save lives, using his wealth as leverage. However, the moment he lays down a pile of gold as payment for a worker’s life carries an unbearable weight, showing the high price of human life and what it means to keep those he cares for alive.

Context: This scene draws attention to the underlying transactional nature of survival during the Holocaust, while also showcasing the lengths Schindler is willing to go for others.

The Last Name on the List

As Schindler finalizes the list, he faces an internal conflict about those he couldn’t save. His growing guilt comes to a climax as he adds one last name, remaining determined until the very end. This act is charged with emotion as it symbolizes hope, despair, and the constant fight for survival.

Context: This moment encapsulates Schindler's journey of redemption and shows the weight of his actions, embodying the film’s deeper themes of sacrifice and humanity in the face of horror.

The Revelation of Humanity

In the depths of despair, a Jewish character finds solace in small acts of kindness shared between the prisoners. Moments of laughter and hope amidst the darkest times highlight the strength of the human spirit. This fleeting joy reflects the resilience that has come to define their existence.

Context: This scene enriches the narrative’s emotional fabric, reminding audiences that even in dire circumstances, small acts of humanity can resonate profoundly.


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The Last-Minute Casting Decisions

Liam Neeson, who played Oskar Schindler, was not the first choice for the role; the director Steven Spielberg had initially considered other actors, including Kevin Spacey.

Why it matters: Neeson's casting brought a unique depth to Schindler's character, transforming the narrative and allowing the audience to see the complexity of his moral dilemmas, which became pivotal in his journey.

The Use of Real Survivors as Extras

Many of the Jewish extras in the film were actual Holocaust survivors, lending authenticity and emotional weight to the film's portrayal of the atrocities.

Why it matters: This choice significantly deepened the viewer's connection to the story, allowing the real-life experiences of the survivors to resonate strongly with the on-screen narrative.

Shooting in Black and White

Spielberg's decision to shoot the film in black and white was influenced by the look and feel of old newsreels and documentaries about the Holocaust.

Why it matters: The black-and-white aesthetic not only grounded the film in a documentary style but also heightened the emotional intensity, emphasizing the bleakness of the subject matter.

The Girl in the Red Coat

The use of color for the little girl in the red coat was a deliberate choice meant to symbolize innocence and the emotional weight of loss amid the atrocities.

Why it matters: This moment became iconic, as it starkly contrasted the grey backdrop of the Holocaust, making it a pivotal symbol for viewers and deepening the film's commentary on loss and humanity.

Real Locations for Authenticity

Shooting primarily in Kraków, Poland, the filmmakers prioritized authentic locations that reflected the historical reality of Nazi occupation.

Why it matters: Using real locations added a layer of realism that underscores the film's narrative, making the horrific events feel immediate and visceral to the audience.

The Harsh Reality of Filming

Many actors, including Ralph Fiennes (Amon Goeth), found their roles emotionally taxing, leading to an intense on-set atmosphere.

Why it matters: Fiennes’ commitment to portraying such a vile character contributed to an authentic sense of dread, enhancing the film’s tense emotional landscape.

The Impact of Music

John Williams' score for 'Schindler's List' was created after Spielberg had visions of the emotional tone he wanted for pivotal scenes.

Why it matters: The haunting violin score became synonymous with the film, magnifying its emotional resonance and leaving a lasting impact on the audience's perception of the story.

The Poster's Symbolism

The film's poster, featuring the red coat, reflects the thematic essence of the movie, balancing horror with a glimmer of humanity.

Why it matters: This visual metaphor contributes to the film's ability to convey the fragility of life amidst tragedy, influencing how audiences interpret the film before and after viewing.

Oskar Schindler's Real-Life Complexity

The film's portrayal of Schindler's moral ambiguities was informed by extensive research and interviews with Holocaust survivors.

Why it matters: This nuanced depiction encourages audiences to grapple with the complexities of moral courage and human behavior in extreme circumstances.

The Role of the Nuremberg Laws

The filmmakers ensured that details about the historical context of the Nuremberg Laws were accurately depicted, emphasizing the systemic nature of the Holocaust.

Why it matters: This precision in portraying legal atrocities provided a chilling backdrop, enhancing the film’s educational value and moral weight.

Steven Spielberg's Personal Connection

Spielberg's interest in the Holocaust was partly fueled by a family connection; his Jewish ancestry influenced his passion for telling this story.

Why it matters: This personal commitment imbued the filmmaking process with a profound sense of urgency and authenticity, ensuring that the film was not merely a project but a meaningful mission.

Adam Kimmel's Cinematography

Cinematographer Janusz Kamiński created a visual style that used natural lighting to enhance the film's realism.

Why it matters: This technique significantly contributed to the film’s immersive experience, making scenes feel raw and unfiltered, drawing viewers deeper into the historical context.

The Study of Polish Culture

Cast members underwent cultural immersion and dialect training to authentically portray Polish characters.

Why it matters: This preparation helped enhance the characters’ authenticity, allowing for a more engaging and realistic portrayal of their experiences during the war.

The Emotional Toll on the Cast

Many actors, especially the leads, had to process their characters’ harrowing experiences, leading to instances of emotional breakdowns on set.

Why it matters: The depth of feeling exhibited in their performances stems from this emotional investment, which delivers a powerful impact on the audience.

Incorporating Historical Footage

The film includes actual historical footage and photographs to bridge the gap between fiction and reality.

Why it matters: This technique fortifies the viewer's understanding of the historical context and serves to heighten the emotional stakes of the narrative.

The Impact of Editing

The film's editing, notably by Michael Kahn, shaped its rhythm, balancing intense scenes with reflective moments.

Why it matters: This craftsmanship made the pacing feel more natural and impactful, allowing key scenes to resonate more deeply with audiences.

The Role of the Holocaust Museum

Consultants from the Holocaust Museum were brought in to ensure accuracy in the film's portrayal of events.

Why it matters: This collaboration guaranteed a level of authenticity that enhanced the film's credibility and educational value.

Amon Goeth's Characterization

Ralph Fiennes' portrayal of Amon Goeth was influenced by interviews with historians and survivors that highlighted his psychopathic tendencies.

Why it matters: This insight led to a chilling performance that left audiences astonished and disturbed, emphasizing the horror of humanity’s capacity for evil.

The Linked Fates of the Characters

The interweaving narratives of Schindler’s employees and the greater Jewish community were carefully crafted to showcase the real consequences of Schindler's actions.

Why it matters: This storytelling method added gravity to the plot, fostering a deeper sympathy for the characters and a better understanding of the human cost of the Holocaust.

The Authenticity of Costumes

Costume designer Anna B. Sheppard sourced authentic vintage clothing to ensure that the attire worn was true to the time period and setting.

Why it matters: The attention to detail helped immerse the audience in the era and circumstances, enhancing the film's impact and historical accuracy.

Filming Under Difficult Conditions

The film was shot in the freezing cold of winter, which often led to actors and crew members battling the elements alongside the emotional intensity of the script.

Why it matters: This added layer of physical struggle enhanced the realism of the filming, contributing to the film’s raw and poignant atmosphere.

The Element of Silence

The use of near silence in certain scenes was a conscious choice to emphasize the gravity of the moment.

Why it matters: This technique heightened emotional engagement and offered viewers a powerful pause to absorb the weight of the storyline.

The Decision to Use English

The film’s use of English for dialogue was a choice made to broaden accessibility for international audiences.

Why it matters: While it changed some nuances, this decision facilitated a wider reach, ensuring that the monumental story could be shared with a global audience.

Spielberg's Shadow

The shadow of Schindler’s character is a recurring motif, visually representing his complex moral journey and internal conflict.

Why it matters: This metaphorical use of shadows adds depth to the visual storytelling, prompting viewers to reflect on the nature of good and evil.


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