Child 44

“Child 44” takes place in Stalin-era Soviet Union. In an orphanage, where children are starved, we see a young boy witness the beating of another boy. He uses this distraction to escape to what he hopes is a better life. He runs into the Stalin regime, where he is taken and turned into a solider and is given the name “Leo.”

Fast forward 10 years, Leo (Tom Hardy), is now a high ranking official in the military police. He is married and much respected by his fellow officers. His orders include finding, capturing murdering individuals accused of standing against the regime.

However, his life takes a dramatic turn when the son of his best friend is found dead. The parents are told that the child’s death was accidental, to perpetuate a lie of the Stalinist totalitarian government, “There are no murders in Paradise” Leo is commanded to inform the parents/his best friend not to question the governments official report. To make matters worse, Leo’s wife has also been identified as a traitor. Leo refuses to denounce his wife and is betrayed by his fellow officers, and forced to leave his old life with his wife (who we learn has her own secrets) and live as a disgraced officer.

Leo finds himself under the orders of General Mikhail Nesterov (Gary Oldman), soon after his arrival another young boy is found murdered. A cover up is revealed, and Leo is determined to find the truth.

The intricate design of the plot sets up a thrilling, period drama.

Before I saw the trailer, I insisted on seeing this film for the acting genius of Tom Hardy and Gary Oldman. I was no disappointed, Hardy truly gives a masterful performance and keeps the story going—and interesting. However, the plot could be clearer. The rest of the cast is adequate, but overshadowed by Hardy and Oldman.

There is an abundance of objectionable content, gratuitous swearing (including many f-words), extreme violence and nudity. Some seemed appropriate and conducive to the plot, but it was definitely excessive.

As for the biblical aspect, the depravity of man is the backdrop. When we humans remove God from all aspects of life, anything and everything is permitted. Good is evil and evil is good. With the rise of Christian persecution around the world, we are unfortunately seeing history repeat itself. Christians need to be bold in proclaiming the Gospel to our lost and dark world. We are called to be salt and light, even if it means we are seen as unpopular—or worse.

I cannot recommend this film. While the acting is above reproach, the storyline is too dark and contains excessive objectionable material.

Violence: Extreme / Profanity: Heavy / Sex/Nudity: Heavy

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