The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

During World War II, 8-year-old Bruno and his family leave Berlin to take up residence near the concentration camp where his father has just become commandant. Unhappy and lonely, he wanders out behind his house one day and finds Shmuel, a Jewish boy of his age. Though the barbed-wire fence of the camp separates them, the boys begin a forbidden friendship, oblivious to the real nature of their surroundings.

Media Type: Movie

Genres: Drama, War, History

Educational Topics: Holocaust, WWII

Grade Level: High School

Key Scene: Final fence scene

Teaching Activity Idea: Reflective journaling from different character perspectives.

Discussion Questions: What does this film teach about innocence and propaganda?

Rating: PG-13

Streaming: Paramount+