Varian's War (2001)

An American hero of the Holocaust

This little known gem of a Holocaust movie by Showtime is worth watching for its portrayal of an American intellectual, Varian Fry's efforts in rescuing Jewish artists & intellectuals trapped in Vichy France during World War Two. Although Varian's efforts were not publicly recognised until after his death in 1967, this movie showcases his heroism in a time when the US maintained a policy of neutrality in the war. Varian is played brilliantly by William Hurt and Julia Ormond shines in her role as the female assistant. The story moves along at a thrilling pace with Varian having to fend off the Nazis and the French securitate whilst undertaking efforts to transport Jewish refugees to Spain. Thanks to Varian Fry's little known heroism, the human race has been enriched by the works of such Jewish luminaries [amongst those he rescued] such as the artist Marc Chagall, and the author Hannah Arendt. A compelling film! May 8, 2007

An unheralded hero of Holocaust events

Isn't it amazing how many unlikely people can end up the biggest and bravest of heroes? THAT is precisely the story of Varian Fry, an almost "Mr.Peepers"-kind-of-guy who risked life and limb to get safe passage for countless artists,composers,writers,scientists and "subversive" free-thinkers trapped in German-occupied Vichy France.With the express backing of then First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt,Varian Fry operates under guise in order to provide "legitimate" papers for peoples set for arrest,deportation and extermination by the Nazis.SEE THE DOCUMENTARY ENTITLED VARIAN FRY as an excellent companion piece to this wonderful homage to an unheralded hero. February 14, 2007

Vitally Important & well done

This work is significant not only for understanding the way that the Allies let down the Jews during WWII, but for understanding that this is happening again - particularly in Europe, but also in the U.S.A. August 23, 2006

Simplifies the Complexities of History

This movie is loosely based on the life and work of Varian Fry, an American intellectual who went to Vichy France to save European cultural luminaries from fascist persecution and death. The movie simplifies a complex person and situation, and, as such, falls short of the true history. I do think William Hurt does a good job portraying Fry. I have shown this movie to history classes, but found the pacing is a little slow for most high school students (although a minority appreciated the fact that an American also played a role in saving Jews). To people interested in learning more about Varian Fry, I highly recommend Andy Marino's fascinating character study, A QUIET AMERICAN: THE SECRET WAR OF VARIAN FRY. To history teachers looking for good (and appropriate) films to show students on rescuers during the Holocaust, you might consider the RESCUERS: STORIES OF COURAGE series. February 15, 2004

I was an extra in this film (:>)

I rented this flick n' only watched the part
I'm in.If U blink U will miss me but I'm the skinny
chef in the background of that diner.This flick
might be good but tryin' 2 watch the rest of it made me
sleepy. December 23, 2002

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