“Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin.” - A Review

Angel Studios has produced “The Chosen” TV series plus a variety of faith-based films including last year’s highly successful “Sound of Freedom.” I saw their latest release “Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin.” when it came out two days ago. This biopic is about a German theologian who stood up against the Nazis before and during World War II. 

Previously I watched a 2000 made-for-TV movie about Bonhoeffer and expected similarities between that and the new flick. The latter film doesn’t follow his life in chronological order. Dietrich is shown in captivity with frequent flashbacks beginning with his childhood. After his older brother Walter died during World War I, Dietrich became a minister and eventually traveled to America. There he developed an appreciation for black gospel music and desired to share that with the churches back in Germany. 


Unfortunately, the Nazis came into power and began dictating what German churches could say and do. Dietrich openly spoke out against Nazi doctrine that contradicted the Bible and launched what became known as the Confessing Church. After spending time in England and again in America, Dietrich felt a need to return to Germany despite facing arrest. He ultimately spent two years behind bars before being executed for his connection with the failed assassination attempt of Hitler.


“Bonhoeffer” does not mention his engagement to one of his former confirmation students before his arrest. Another inaccuracy I noticed was that Dietrich was fully clothed when hanged. The Nazis had their victims strip naked before going to the gallows. The descendants of Bonhoeffer have distanced themselves from the film. Some historians have accused people of using his story to promote Christian Nationalism. I didn’t perceive that at all. 


Despite its flaws, “Bonhoeffer” should be a wake-up call not to take freedom for granted. 

Believers must be willing to stand for Biblical truth regardless of what their government does. Few Christians in Western nations have had to face the decision to die for their faith. That will certainly be the case when the antichrist comes to power.


“Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” - Revelation 2:10

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