Movie review: Jojo Rabbit

 Having joined Hitler's army, Jojo soon after discovers his single mother hiding a Jewish girl in their attic. With help from his imaginary best friend, Adolf Hitler, Jojo confronts his nationalism and beliefs in this World War II satire.

Roman Davis (Jojo), Thomasin McKenzie (Elsa), Scarlett Johansson (Rosie), Taika Waititi (Adolf), Sam Rockwell (Capt. Klenzendorf), Rebel Wilson (Fraulein Rahm), Alfie Allen (Finkel), Archie Yates (Yorki).

Jojo Rabbit begins with some plot setup, character introductions, and a look at Jojo's life thus far. The humor comes quickly when Adolf and Jojo's mother, Rosie, are introduced. Soon after, Jojo discovers Elsa living in the attic with his mother's blessing. From there the story follows along as Jojo explores his conflicted feelings with help from Adolf, his idiotic imaginary friend. The story and the laughs continue through and amusing ending.

Acting was solid with Davis doing a very good job. McKenzie also delivered a solid performance and worked well with Davis. Johansson was enjoyable with good delivery as usual. Waititi fit his role nice, as did Rockwell and Wilson, and all three added nicely to the film.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are enjoyable and fit the film well. Effects blended well throughout. Dialogue was good with nice laughs and depths. Accents were reasonable to understand most of the time. Sound and soundtrack are good.

Overall Jojo Rabbit is a fun little film with a nicely done comedic approach to a rather unique storyline. Acting and technical work are solid with the film moving at a nice pace with some nice chuckles. Those who enjoy a good satire should enjoy this one.

With a bit of sexuality, violence, foul language, and adult situations, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2019
Reviewed: 8.10.20
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Spoofs and Satire, War, Drama, Dark Humor

copyright ©2020 Dave Riedel