Watch A Hidden Life

A Hidden Life is a 2019 historical drama film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Terrence Malick. The movie is based on the life of Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian peasant and conscientious objector who refused to fight for the Nazis during World War II. The film stars August Diehl as Franz, Valerie Pachner as his wife Franziska, and Maria Simon as his sister-in-law Resie.

The story is set in the small village of St. Radegund, where Franz and Franziska live with their three daughters. Franz is a devout Catholic who lives a simple life, working as a farmer and spending time with his family. When the war begins, he is called upon to join the army, but he refuses to swear allegiance to Hitler and fight for the Third Reich. Despite pressure from his community and the threat of imprisonment and death, Franz remains steadfast in his refusal to participate in the war.

The film is beautifully shot, with stunning scenery and sweeping landscapes that evoke the natural beauty of the Austrian countryside. Malick's signature poetic style is on full display, with dreamlike sequences and meditative voiceovers that provide insight into Franz's inner turmoil as he struggles with his conscience and the weight of his decision.

The acting in the film is also top-notch, with Diehl delivering a powerful performance as Franz. He captures the character's quiet strength and contemplative nature, and his interactions with Pachner are particularly moving. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their scenes together are both tender and heartbreaking.

Throughout the film, we see Franz's relationships with the women in his life - his wife, his mother, and his sister-in-law - as they bear witness to his moral dilemma and offer their support. Each of these characters is well-drawn and fully realized, with their own hopes, fears, and struggles. Simon, in particular, stands out as Resie, who shares Franz's convictions but must face the reality of what it means to stand up to the Nazis.

One of the most compelling aspects of A Hidden Life is the way it explores the role of faith and religion in times of crisis. Franz's Catholicism is not a passive belief, but a guiding principle that informs every decision he makes. He sees his refusal to fight as an act of faith and a rejection of evil, even as others accuse him of being a traitor and a coward. The film raises questions about the nature of conscience, the power of individual action, and the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.

Overall, A Hidden Life is a gorgeous and thought-provoking film that offers a powerful meditation on courage, conviction, and the human spirit. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate Malick's particular brand of cinema will find much to admire here. It is a movie that stays with you long after the credits roll, reminding us of the power of one person's voice to make a difference in the world.

A Hidden Life is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 54 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 78.