Steven Spielberg’s journey in bringing “Schindler’s List” to the silver screen was punctuated by many challenges. In an extensive oral history discussion published by The Hollywood Reporter, Spielberg shared his initial doubts concerning the storytelling potential behind Thomas Keneally’s historical account, “Schindler’s Ark.” He wondered if a viable narrative could be extracted from the book that seemed replete with facts and historical data but lacked a readily apparent storyline.
Despite successfully overcoming these hurdles and creating a cinematic landmark, Spielberg remained mystified by one core aspect:
“The great mystery, though, which I could never solve when I read it, was: Why did Schindler do this? Why did he risk his life and spend nine percent of the money he’d amassed to buy his workers back from [Kraków-Płaszów concentration camp commandant] Amon Göth and eventually bring them to freedom?”
He then related this lingering question to a poignant symbol from cinema history:
“Every time I look at my Rosebud sled hanging on the wall, I think, ‘I never had the Rosebud moment for ‘Schindler’s List’ that Orson Welles found for ‘Citizen Kane.’”
Nevertheless, compared to Welles’ “Citizen Kane,” Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List” not only addressed historical veracity but also achieved remarkable recognition, earning him Oscars for both Best Picture and Best Director—accolades Welles missed out on, despite the enduring legacy of “Citizen Kane.”
FAQs About “Schindler’s List” and Spielberg’s Directorial Challenges
- What book is “Schindler’s List” based on?
- “Schindler’s List” is based on the book titled “Schindler’s Ark” by Thomas Keneally.
- What was Steven Spielberg’s main challenge in adapting the book?
- Spielberg’s main challenge was finding a compelling narrative within the historical details presented in the book.
- What mystery from “Schindler’s List” does Spielberg still ponder over?
- Spielberg still ponders over the mystery of why Oskar Schindler chose to risk everything to save his Jewish workers.
- Did “Schindler’s List” win any Oscars?
- Yes, “Schindler’s List” won Oscars for Best Picture and Best Director among others.
Conclusion
Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of “Schindler’s List” remains a testament to his remarkable skill as a filmmaker. Despite the success and praises, Spielberg has candidly expressed the incompleteness he feels with regards to understanding Schindler’s deep motivations. Yet, this enduring question adds a layer of profound human complexity to the film and possibly contributes to its lasting impact. Even without solving every mystery, Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List” continues to evoke reflection and conversation on the human capacity for both evil and immense good.