Exploring Change in the Boy in the Striped Pajamas

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The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas Firstly, what is change? Change is an act or process through which a difference is created, whether it has a negative or positive effect. Change is a universal concept which is inevitable in all areas of our worlds, including in one’s self, one’s world and one’s perspective. These changes are prevalent in the film “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas”, directed by Mark Heron, based on the novel by John Boyne. Set during the Holocaust era, the story is told through the eyes of a German boy called Bruno. It is about the effects of the Nazi ruling and the unfair treatment of Jews. “Each person’s task in life is to become an increasingly better person.” -Leo Tolstoy. This quote demonstrates the positive change Bruno go through. A number of techniques such as camera angles, speech and costumes are used to illustrate the concept of change. Bruno changing into striped pyjamas is a salient indicator of his transformation. Through a loss of innocence and the discovery of friendship, Bruno undergoes psychological transformations that shape his values and final sense of identity. In the beginning of the film, Bruno lived what was a considered the ideal lifestyle. In this photo, we can gather that Bruno was happy, carefree and with no concept of war, hatred or prejudice. The bright use of lighting by the director, and Bruno’s facial expression signalises a cheerful and ideal lifestyle. The background of this photo also illustrates the bustling town full of activity and friends. Bruno started off as an obedient child who was proud of his father, a high-ranking Nazi leader, and supported what he was doing without question. This all changed when his father moved Bruno, his mother and sister into an isolated location where Bruno is exposed to a world of hatred and bigotry towards Jews. This picture demonstrates the dogmatic nature of Nazi soldiers.

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