The Final Days Analysis

Produced in 2005, Marc Rothermund’s Sophie Scholl – The Final Days illustrates how life is a matter of choice and not chance. Using symbolism, Sophie Scholl confronts the major social issues inflicted by Nazi Germany in the mid twentieth century. One social issue, the freedom of thinking, is the main theme within the film. The producers strive to exemplify this as they demonstrate the courage and strength of Sophie and Hans Scholl. Freedom within Germany was almost non-existent as Adolf Hitler and the Nazis slowly went into denial after the defeat at the Battle of Stalingrad. The constricting grip on the White Rose was tested as Sophie and Hans stood up against authority and released anti-Hitler literature to the public – the fighting force

In the case of Sophie Scholl, Rothermund has used symbolism evidently and more frequently towards the end of the film. From the start, the setting is dark and somber as Sophie walks across the street to meet with Hans. Even using a building that the characters have to walk down into creates an underworld feeling about the scene, before you even know about the business that is taking place. Soon to follow, the Scholl’s are shown in the safety of their own home with warm lighting and a less secretive mood. A prominent symbol in this scene is the one of tea. Seeing tea being poured into a china cup then placed onto a tea tray before being casually (not stressfully) carried over to a table lets the audience know that the characters know exactly what they are doing, and aren’t worried about any precautions or consequences of their actions . This reflects upon Sophie and Hans, more specifically, how overwhelmingly they feel about the cause that they are willing to give their lives for. Later in the film, while Sophie and Hans are in custody awaiting their trial, the audience gets a sense of realization about the little things in Sophie’s life. Symbolism of faith is exampled, as Sophie really expresses her faith in God by praying each night. The praying becomes more frequent throughout the film until Sophie’s faith reaches a point

From the beginning Sophie is seen gazing upon light as she walks to the university to distribute the leaflets – in that moment, a sense of appreciation for life is portrayed to the audience. Knowing the cause she is fighting for could potentially be fatal, she finds herself in a position where she is willing to risk everything to distribute the White Rose’s truth. Inside the University two particular scenes show the symbolism of light. The first being as they walk in and simultaneously look up at the grand sky light that illuminates both of them – in this ‘do or die’ moment they acquire the courage to finally carry through with the mission . The second being once the pamphlets have dropped, the camera changes angle to shows the pieces of paper fluttering down towards the ground whilst the skylight lights up the background . This symbolizes the truth being released and ‘free’; the success of their cause. While she sits awaiting trial, once again, she pays particular attention to the window that leaks a small amount of light into the room; Sophie stares in complete appreciation knowing that it won’t be around for much longer . When she is taken from her holding cell to the executioner, she briefly passes a patch of sunlight where you can see in her facial expression, she releases herself to God . The symbol of light in the