The highly anticipated WWII thriller BONHOEFFER is set to make a major impact across UK and Irish cinemas, generating significant buzz among grassroot audiences and major critics.
Ahead of its March 7 release, the film has received widespread acclaim from both major and independent publications. The Guardian has described it as “old school movie making… the sort that would have been up for Oscars” giving it 3 stars while The Express describes Bonhoeffer as “Amazing…” and a “…previously untold story of an unsung hero.”
Rotten Tomatoes 4.5 star ratings reflect its strong reception, with critics and industry experts offering high praise. 93% of SKY critics recommend the film stating it as “Impactful and Important”.
Madelaine Dowds, Culture Reporter for Times Radio, described BONHOEFFER as “a very interesting and inspiring story” and noted she was “so impressed.” Internationally renowned theologian and evangelist Canon J John called it “a well-acted, quality production that raises important questions for today.” The Express hailed it as “the amazing, previously untold true story of an unsung hero,” while British Cinematographer praised it as “beautifully shot, by John Mathieson, as expected.” Film site HeyUGuys described it as “relevant, gripping, and undeniably courageous.”
Amidst the endorsements, online responses have been divisive and hate-speech against Jonsson has been rife. The film stars David Jonsson, one of Britain’s most exciting young talents and recent winner of BAFTA EE Rising Star Award. Known for his standout performances in Industry (HBO) and Rye Lane (2023), Jonsson’s nomination further cements his status as a rising force in British cinema.
However, social media responses to adverts highlighting Jonsson show that racism online is ever-present. Far from deterring audiences, the backlash has only fueled conversations about the film’s urgency in today’s climate. Just as Bonhoeffer’s defiance challenged the moral conscience of his era, BONHOEFFER is now prompting reflection on the ongoing fight against hate in all its forms.
Director Todd Komarnicki (Elf, Sully) is not surprised by the celebrations or the polarisation as he comments ‘Bonhoeffer is not just a man for all time… but for our time.’ Komarnicki praised Jonsson’s performance, stating:
“David Jonsson possesses that rarest of qualities in an actor—a wary compassion, a distant intimacy. He can make you feel both close and far away in the same moment. And in the space between… all his mystery and power ignites.”
Beyond its cinematic appeal, BONHOEFFER has sparked nationwide discussions and international debate, drawing both acclaim and controversy. As anticipation builds, the film is set for its nationwide release this Friday, March 7, hitting cinemas across the UK and Ireland.
