The Zookeeper's Wife

The Zookeeper's Wife

Year: 2017

Runtime: 127 min

Language: English

Director: Niki Caro

BiographyDramaHistoryWar

In 1939 Poland, Antonina and Jan Żabiński, keepers of a Warsaw zoo, face a harrowing ordeal when Nazi forces invade. As the world descends into war, they find themselves in a precarious position, using the zoo as a refuge for Jews and secretly aiding the Polish Resistance. Antonina's bravery and quick thinking become crucial as she risks her family’s safety to protect those in need, demonstrating extraordinary compassion amidst unimaginable cruelty.

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Timeline & Setting – The Zookeeper's Wife (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Zookeeper's Wife (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1939-1945

The movie takes place during the tumultuous years of World War II, a period marked by conflict, oppression, and significant cultural upheaval. The events in Europe during this time were defined by the rise of totalitarian regimes and the horrors of the Holocaust, which led to the brutal persecution of Jews and other minorities. The storyline depicts the personal stakes of the war through the lens of ordinary individuals who chose bravery and compassion despite the overwhelming chaos.

Location

Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is known for its rich history and cultural resilience. During World War II, it faced massive destruction and turmoil, particularly during the Invasion of Poland in 1939. The city's Warsaw Zoo became a pivotal sanctuary for human lives during the Nazi regime, reflecting the harrowing realities of war and the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants.

🏙️ City 🐾 Zoo

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:17

Main Characters – The Zookeeper's Wife (2017)

Meet the key characters of The Zookeeper's Wife (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dr. Jan Żabiński

As the director of the Warsaw Zoo, Dr. Jan Żabiński embodies dedication and courage. His resolve to protect those in peril reveals a deep sense of empathy and responsibility, often risking his life to shield others from the horrors surrounding them. His character emphasizes the struggle between personal safety and moral duty during a time of crisis.

💼 Director 🦁 Animal Lover

Antonina Żabiński

Antonina Żabiński, the wife of Jan, is portrayed as a pillar of strength and compassion. Her nurturing spirit not only provides a safe haven for those in hiding but also highlights the emotional toll of war on everyday life. Through her music and caring demeanor, she symbolizes hope and humanity in times of despair.

🎵 Musician ❤️ Caregiver

Dr. Lutz Heck

Dr. Lutz Heck serves as an antagonistic force in the story, representing the brutal reality of the Nazi regime. Initially a professional rival, his character reveals a complex interplay of ambition and malevolence, particularly in his manipulative intentions towards the Żabińskis. The tension he creates encapsulates the dangers of misplaced power and desire.

⚔️ Antagonist 🦓 Zoologist

Maurycy Fraenkel

Maurycy Fraenkel is a Jewish friend of the Żabińskis who seeks refuge from the brutalities of the Ghetto. His character personifies the desperation and fear faced by many during the war, emphasizing the personal cost of survival and friendship amidst persecution. His pleas for help compel the Żabińskis to take life-threatening risks.

🕵️‍♂️ Refugee 🤝 Friend

Magda Gross

Magda Gross, another Jewish friend, embodies resilience and hope. Seeking sanctuary with the Żabiński family, her character highlights the theme of community and solidarity among those targeted by the oppressive regime. Her experiences serve to illustrate the devastating choices forced upon individuals during wartime.

🌷 Survivor 👭 Ally

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:17

Major Themes – The Zookeeper's Wife (2017)

Explore the central themes of The Zookeeper's Wife (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Love & Sacrifice

The theme of love and sacrifice is central to the narrative, highlighting how the Żabiński family risked their lives to save others. Their profound bond served as a source of strength amid the adversities of war. The love between Jan and Antonina transcended personal safety, demonstrating that compassion can flourish even in the darkest times.

🕊️ Courage & Resistance

Courage and resistance are integral themes as the Żabińskis defy the Nazi regime's oppression by sheltering Jewish friends and using their zoo as a refuge. Their actions underscore the moral imperative to resist tyranny, portraying how ordinary people can become champions of dignity and survival against overwhelming forces.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:17

Unlock the Full Story of The Zookeeper's Wife

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The Zookeeper's Wife Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Zookeeper's Wife, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Zookeeper's Wife Summary

The Zookeeper's Wife Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Zookeeper's Wife with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Zookeeper's Wife Timeline

More About The Zookeeper's Wife

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More About The Zookeeper's Wife

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