All the Light We Cannot See is an adaptation of Anthony Doerr's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name. Set during World War II, the series follows the lives of Marie-Laure, a French girl who is blind, and a German orphan, Werner, whose paths eventually cross in occupied France.
The series beautifully tells the story, weaving together the lives of its two protagonists against the backdrop of war. The cinematography captures both the beauty of the French countryside and the horrors of war-torn Europe.
The show's portrayal of Marie-Laure was particularly poignant, capturing both the challenges and the beauty of navigating the world without sight. One of the things that
struck me about the film was its sensitive portrayal of Marie-Laure's disability. Rather than treating her blindness as a limitation, the film shows how she is able to navigate the world using her other strengths and abilities, as well as the support of those around her. The manner in which this character is portrayed felt authentic and respectful, avoiding common stereotypes and tropes associated with disability. Aria Mia Loberti and Nell Sutton skillfully
play the main character Marie-Laure in two life stages. Both Sutton (who plays the younger Marie-Laure) and Loberti (who plays the older Marie Laure) are blind, like their character.
What sets All the Light We Cannot See apart is its exploration of themes such as the power of human connection, the impact of war on ordinary lives, and the resilience of the human spirit. The film also does a great job of highlighting the barriers that disabled people face, particularly during times of war. Marie-Laure's disability makes her more vulnerable to the dangers of the war, yet it also gives her a unique perspective on the world around her.
Another standout element of the film is the role that family and mentors play in shaping the lives of the main characters. Despite facing significant obstacles, both Marie-Laure and Werner find strength and guidance from the people around them who believe in their potential.
Marie-Laure's relationship with her father, aunt and uncle, who nurture her curiosity and teach her to navigate the world through her other senses, is particularly poignant. Their teachings, coupled with encouragement and support, give her the confidence to face the challenges of being blind in a sighted world. Similarly, Werner finds a mentor in his older sister Jutta, and also in the nun who manages the orphanage. These two women encourage his love for science and remind him of the importance of kindness and compassion, even in the midst of war. Werner and Marie both find a mentor in a radio host called “The Professor” who shapes both of their lives.
As the story unfolds, we see how these positive influences shape the choices that Marie-Laure and Werner make and the impact they have on each other's lives. Despite the ugliness of war and the uncertainty of their circumstances, they both find solace and strength in the lessons imparted by their mentors and relatives.
Overall
I rate All the Light We Cannot See a 4/5 for the characters, 4/5 for the story and 5/5 for disability representation. Overall, this is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a nuanced portrayal of disability. It is a reminder of the resilience and strength of disabled people, and a testament to the power of human connection in overcoming adversity. It is a thought-provoking and deeply moving film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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