This movie should be mandatory viewing for high school students and up. It raises important questions about morality during war time and the ability to survive under the most appalling circumstances. Although brutal at times, this movie is life affirming. It also shares a very important history lesson about the German and the Russian treatment of the Jews during WW II. The acting took me completely by surprise. Although I was aware of Liev Schreiber's talents, it was Daniel Craig who blew me away. Who could have known from his rather flat performances as James Bond that he is capable of this level of depth in his acting? He deserves an Oscar nod for this performance.