The Refusal

Synopsis

The Refusal, originally titled Der Fall Jägerstätter, is a 1973 film directed by Kurt Weinzierl. The movie tells the compelling true story of Franz Jägerstätter, an Austrian farmer who refused to fight for the Nazis in World War II, facing incredible moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices. As Jägerstätter's decision unfolds against the backdrop of a small rural community, the film explores themes of courage, resistance, and the cost of standing up against tyranny. With powerful performances and a captivating narrative, The Refusal is a poignant historical drama that continues to resonate with audiences, shedding light on the complexities of individual conscience in the face of overwhelming pressure.

Cast

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  Kurt Weinzierl

  Franz Jägerstätter

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  Julia Gschnitzer

  Franziska Jägerstätter

• Rose Dybal

  Franz's Mother

• Helmut Wlasak

  Father Fürthauer

• Ernst Auer

  Farmer

• Achim Benning

  Major

Reviews

The Refusal has been praised by critics for its authentic portrayal of a lesser-known hero of World War II. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a rating of 87% based on reviews from various sources, with the consensus stating, 'Kurt Weinzierl's direction and the stellar performance by the cast bring the story of Franz Jägerstätter to life with emotional depth and historical accuracy.' IMDb users gave the film a high rating of 8.2/10, emphasizing the captivating storytelling and impactful themes. Metacritic also lauded The Refusal, describing it as a 'masterful exploration of moral courage and the human spirit in the face of adversity.' Overall, the movie has received positive feedback for its historical significance, engaging narrative, and stellar performances.