Watch Come Before Winter

Come Before Winter is a powerful and moving historical drama that takes audiences on a journey through the harrowing experience of four Christian martyrs during World War II. The movie is based on actual events and follows the lives of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a pastor and theologian, along with three of his closest friends and colleagues, as they struggle to maintain their faith and continue their mission in the face of Nazi persecution.

Set in Germany in the early 1940s, the film opens with Bonhoeffer (played by Gus Lynch) returning from New York to his homeland, where he quickly becomes involved in the underground resistance against the Nazi regime. Along with his friends, Pastor Martin Niemöller (Aubrey Wakeling), Hans von Dohnanyi (Kelly Reed), and his brother Klaus Bonhoeffer (Doug Barden), Bonhoeffer faces great danger and uncertainty as he works to plot against the government and help Jews escape to safety.

As the war intensifies, the group becomes increasingly desperate and is forced to make difficult decisions about how far they are willing to go to fight for their beliefs. In one powerful scene, they discuss the possibility of using violence to bring down the regime, questioning whether their faith allows them to take such extreme measures.

The film also explores Bonhoeffer's relationship with Maria von Wedemeyer (Morgan Wakeling), a young woman he becomes engaged to while imprisoned in Berlin. The two have a touching and poignant connection, and their love provides a heartwarming contrast to the harsh realities of the war.

Come Before Winter is a beautifully shot and acted film that creates a strong sense of time and place. The attention to detail in the period costumes and set design is impressive, transporting viewers back to a different era. The cinematography captures the stark beauty of the German countryside and the haunting yet peaceful atmosphere of the prisons where the characters are held.

At its core, the film is a meditation on faith, love, and courage in the face of overwhelming adversity. The characters are complex and nuanced, struggling with conflicting emotions and desires as they try to navigate the chaos around them. The script is well-written and sensitive, striking a delicate balance between drama and introspection.

One of the most powerful aspects of Come Before Winter is the way it humanizes the martyrs, showing them not as saintly figures but as flawed and relatable human beings. The film does not shy away from depicting the moments of doubt, fear, and uncertainty that the characters experience, making their ultimate sacrifice all the more poignant and meaningful.

In a time when the world is facing new political and social challenges, Come Before Winter offers a timely reminder of the importance of standing up for what we believe in and fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. The film urges us to never forget the atrocities of the past and to do everything in our power to ensure that they never happen again.

In conclusion, Come Before Winter is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. With its powerful performances, beautiful visuals, and timeless themes, it is a must-see for anyone interested in history, faith, or the human spirit.

Come Before Winter is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.