Bela Balazs returned to Hungary after the War to help rebuild its film industry. He scripted this film which has been classified by some as an example of 'socialist realism' because he was a committed Marxist. This is debatable as Balazs was dismissed amid hardening political attitudes and died alas, in 1949. If one has to attach a label then I think that of 'neorealism' is far more appropriate as I sense there is more than a passing nod here to Rossellini's 'Rome, Open City' of 1945. It also calls to mind de Sica's 'Shoeshine' of 1946 especially in its depiction of the children. Just a theory of course.
The children in this have been utterly dehumanised by the horrors of war. They are gradually made to feel worthwhile and given hope for the future by the philosophy and civilising influence of Artur Somlay as an elderly classical musician despite their initially wanting to hang him! The run down castle that they have made their home is attacked by fascists and to give themselves courage they whistle the 'Marseillaise' that he has taught them. A truly marvellous moment. The scene where Suszsa Banki as Eva shoots her abuser is a splendid piece of film making.
Director Geza Radvanyi and his cinematographer Barnabas Hegyi have given us some wonderful images here especially in the grouping of the children. The editing alas leaves a lot to be desired and the score is rather intrusive especially in the earlier sequences.
Radvanyi changed his style in the 1950's with varying results but he would never again match this in terms of immediacy, vitality and above all, 'heart'.
Good to know that the talent and vision of Bela Balazs were recognised in 1957 by the founding of a studio bearing his name.
Review of It Happened in Europe
