Knowing people that survived the blitz, English, Danish, Italian, Spaniard and Jewish that escaped in time Poland, I have heard enough of the spirit that reigned during those difficult times. Especially among those survivors that lost their entire family. My mother in law was among them. Knowing them and their stories, watching this film transported me to some of those beautiful stories of these friends that regardless of anything, saw something beautiful, cheerful and enlightening. I bet this film received academy nominations because the film delivers an authentic part of the times and place. Real life as it occurred many of their characters, events, tragedies and moments of awed joy. Isn't what life offers? What this film offers you in short form.John Boorman is an achieved director. Director of the harsh and unforgettable Deliverance and Excalibur among many others. I think this film tops his two widely recognized achievements. Performances are right, at times excellent and a couple of flabby scenes. Photography makes a lot of the scenes a joy. Music accompanies to perfection each of the views when it is present. Now, the plot, the writing is the meat of this joyful film. The story does not lack any critical ingredient to make it a perfect dish. Romance, sex, rebellion, challenge and other good stuff. Sadly, some of the scenes are not young audience proper; otherwise, everyone in the family will have an opportunity to learn about tough times in life and what a right attitude does to resolve it. I highly recommend this movie to viewers that watch films because of its sound content and love for cinema. This film is not a masterpiece but a great one!