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Viehjud Levi (Jew Boy Levi)

© John Nesbit

The good Germans who really didn't participate in the horrors are best represented by Lisbeth, who is torn by her love for Levi but realizes the practicality of her situation. The other two main women represent other aspects of good Germans, as they do not participate in direct threats and hazing, although Lisbeth's mother does forbid her daughter to see Levi again.

Paul represents the ambivalent German, who doesn't know which way the wind will blow. So, on one hand, he initially sabotages the Nazi engineer with a little cow manure, only to be beaten into submission. When he realizes that the Nazis are in power and sees a chance to rid himself of his rival for Lisbeth, he seizes the opportunity.

Most of the town represents the masses of Germans who easily switch loyalties to the Nazi engineer when they believe that his re-opening of the railroad tunnel will better their economic lives. They may be a little surprised at the extent of the attacks on their one time Jewish neighbor, but the underlying suspicions and hard times cloud their initial good will and humor. There are some charming scenes, some beautiful scenery, and a nice extended close-up of Levi's emotive face after the most personal Nazi brutality.

Jew Boy Levi treads much the same thematic ground as many other recent German films about the Holocaust, but treats the subject as a parable that will play much better to its native audience. Jewish audiences will find parts of it moving, but it does little to further more understanding about this horrible period. The film may provoke discussion, but any film about the Holocaust will do that. Don't expect substantial depth with Jew Boy Levi, but it satisfies as a palatable Apple strudel.