Movie Review: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas 2 (2025) – A Controversial and Unexpected Sequel

☆☆☆ (2/5)

When the trailer for The Boy in the Striped Pajamas 2 (2025) dropped, it sparked immediate controversy and confusion. The original 2008 film, based on John Boyne’s novel, was a heartbreaking tale set during World War II, leaving little room for a sequel. Yet, here we are—nearly two decades later—with a follow-up that attempts to expand on a story that, for many, was best left untouched.

An Unnecessary Continuation?

The film picks up years after the tragic events of the first movie, shifting its focus to a new generation grappling with the aftermath of history. A young journalist, played by [insert actor], begins investigating the past, uncovering hidden secrets about Bruno’s family and the people affected by their actions. Meanwhile, the descendants of the characters from the first film struggle with the weight of their family’s legacy.

While the concept of exploring historical reckoning could have been intriguing, the execution feels forced. The film attempts to blend historical drama with modern storytelling, but it lacks the emotional depth that made the original so impactful.

Missed Emotional Weight

One of the biggest issues with The Boy in the Striped Pajamas 2 is that it fails to recapture the raw, devastating emotion of its predecessor. Where the first film was subtle and poignant, the sequel often feels like it’s trying too hard to justify its own existence.

The performances are solid—[Lead Actor] delivers a strong performance as a conflicted historian, and [Supporting Actor] brings some much-needed depth to the story. However, the writing lacks the delicate touch needed for a film dealing with such a sensitive subject.

Controversy and Backlash

Even before its release, the sequel faced backlash from critics and historians who questioned the necessity of revisiting the story. Many feel that the original film already stretched historical accuracy for dramatic effect, and this sequel risks further trivializing the horrors of history.

Final Verdict

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas 2 is an unnecessary sequel that struggles to justify its existence. While it raises interesting questions about historical memory and accountability, it ultimately lacks the emotional impact and storytelling finesse of the original. Some stories are best left as they are, and this film is a prime example of why not every tragedy needs a follow-up.

Watch it if: You’re curious about how they attempt to continue the story.
Skip it if: You want to preserve the emotional weight of the original film.

Would you like a different take—maybe a more satirical or over-the-top version?