Return to the Hiding Place (2013) User Reviews

Not Bad, But Not Great Either

[koolstilez · 5/10 · 15 October 2011]

irstly, the story follows the lives of students and their involvement with the Dutch resistance. For me, I felt mixed emotions from the film. The storyline appeared to have great potential for a big blockbuster that could have sat nicely next to Defiance and Winter In Wartime on the movie shelf and while I enjoyed the film, sadly, there was much left to be desired. The German Colonel (Stass Klassen), by far led the film in the acting department. His performance was solid and at times comparable to Christoph Waltz's performance in Inglourious Basterds, but sadly, he was alone in this department. John Rhys Davis held his own but really too brief a role to help the film. David Thomas Jenkins, Craig Robert Young and the beautiful Rachel Spencer Hewitt made their presence felt, but I felt their characters lacked depth and consistency needed for them to truly grow on you and take you into their world which I put mostly down to the next part. The directing and screenplay seemed to prove the greatest inconsistency and biggest let down with the film. Maybe due to low budget. At times characters were not clearly introduced or very briefly which left me as a viewer putting 2 and 2 together a lot throughout the movie. Also the story pace was up and down like a roller-coaster sometimes dragging slowly but then moving so fast that the scene changed to hours/days ahead and left me wondering where it was at until once again putting 2 and 2 together. For me this is what hurt the story/movie the most.

There was a strong element of religious notion in the film. Religious values were incredibly important during those times and quite often determined where ones stance lied with regards to helping the Jews.

But having said all this, and it will really depend on the individual, I think overall wanting to watch for the storyline itself and to see the evil Colonel Stass in action kept me glued enough. But you will leave the seat having watched this, with the feeling it could have been so much more, in paying homage to those brave souls portrayed in the film.

The movie could have been better

[johanjongepier · 31 August 2011]

I don't know what stars to give the movie. It is okay, and some actors are very good, like the guy who plays the Nazi colonel. But because he plays his role so well you'll notice that other actors in the movie are not so talented/experienced. Sometimes you see some actors just standing there like they don't know what to do until it's time for them to say a line. Also the director could make some more cuts. The story is too slow here and there. The story is good, but maybe the screenwriter could focus more on how the resistance could stop the 'rabit hunt' on Jewish children and keep some parts that didn't have anything to do with that out of the story to keep the movie going. But nevertheless it's a fine movie with historical value. It's about the Christian resistance in the Netherlands during the second world war and how they fought against the evil national-socialist empire of Adolf Hitler.

My Fault Entirely

[simon-koranter · 2/10 · 9 September 2011]

Being a WW2 movie buff (totally bonkers, actually) I simply had to buy this flick without knowing much about it. Honestly, I'm very sorry I ever wasted my money on this. I had to check the credits to make sure it wasn't directed by Uwe Boll.

The story's supposedly a true one. In a script it probably looked much better than on film. Well, it couldn't have looked any worse, really. The acting is non-existent, scenography not there at all, characters are ridiculous. For example, one of the main characters insists on shouting practically all the time - even in most secret of scenes where being unnoticed is vital. There's even a scene of 4 hostages being shot by a firing squad of 3!!! Casting is dreadful, direction... Well, enough about that, I'm sure you get the picture.

In short: my fault entirely. On two accounts: for buying this movie in the first place and for insisting on watching it through (as I always do, sadly enough). Stay away from this one, you mark my words. A true story could have - and should have - been told in at least a semi-professional manner as anything less is a disgrace to the memory of true heroes it depicts. I'm sure they were great men and they deserve a lot more than this rubbish.

Return to the Hiding Place is not quality work

[autumn0143 · 3/10 · 21 September 2014]

I looked forward to viewing this movie with its theme, including Nazi Germany, and hoped it would awaken people to the world around them today. This movie fell deeply short in many areas. It uses the title of the book, "Return to the Hiding Place" by Hans Poley, and yet that is where the similarity between the book and movie ends. Read the book for yourself.

Stass Klassen as the sinister German Colonel and John Rhys Davis in the all too small role of Eusi, were a welcome presence and offset to the weak and one dimensional portrayal by many of the other actors. It was apparent which actors were theatrically trained versus movie actors and which were there as "scenery" and lacked experience and training.

This was basically a family backyard production. Looks to be a directorial debut with scant seasoned movie production professionals involved. The screenplay had some good points. The editing was a hack job. The story lines were disjointed, it was difficult to follow the characters and which storyline they pertained to and many scenes were far-fetched.

It's apparent the directors and production didn't know what they were doing. I've seen too many "low budget" quality indie films and yet their quality was far superior to this movie. It doesn't compare to "The Hiding Place" made in 1975 either.

Those who gave this film a 10 rating, were obviously involved with the making of the film, know people who made it or were in it. As such, they chose to be "overenthusiastic" and obviously, grossly exaggerated its quality. Passion of the Christ, Schindler's List & Forrest Gump deserve a high rating. This film does not. When a movie is good, be honest and say so. When it is not of decent quality, be truthful and say so! I saw this movie in one of the few places they actually previewed it. The ever changing release date, including postponing again until February 2015, and the many free previews they've done, lends more to the case that it is not a quality film worth your very valuable money and very valuable time.

Perhaps someone else will create a movie which will give those who lived courageously and stood up for the cause of humanity, the quality production their story deserves. I pray so as theirs is a story worth telling rightly.

Fatal Error

[hjdingemanse · 1/10 · 3 July 2012]

Beside the bad acting I noticed a fatal error. While Hans is riding on his bike through the city of Harlem. You can see modern cars beside the canal and a at a parking lot. Also you see a modern police logo on a sign. It suppose to be 1940-1945 how you can leave these cars in?? This is so stupid. Man, man, there was no editing at all i suppose. Really amateur. Beside this fatal error there were more non-realistic happenings. clothes, a note given by another inmate to leave a concentration camp. Modern Windmills in the background while viewing the city. Very bad acting. This is a really a non realistic movie. One of the worst movies I have ever seen. What a shame.. A waste of time.

Horrible acting

[jmichaeltodd · 1/10 · 17 February 2019]

Seriously horrible acting. My first clue that this was going to be a pitiful movie should have been the DVD insert that tried to get you to call a number to get a license to show it to large groups. You would never find such a shameless money grab in any seriously respected movie. They even flash the licensing information before the movie. I'm surprised they don't have it running along the screen throughout the movie. Anyway, after watching Julie Harris in the original film, all of the acting seems fake and farcical. It seems very disrespectful toward the victims by producing a silly and unrealistic movie that would obviously not be taken seriously by anyone who wasn't involved in the disrespectful cash grab that is this movie.

Prodigious, anointed, powerful work

[reann648 · 10/10 · 25 May 2012]

I highly recommend this to everyone, especially for our youth to partake and see the supreme true story example, of what it is to stand for something for a vastly larger purpose beyond themselves.

Corrie ten Boom's story is one in a million. Nearly every life that has been touched by the 1975, "The Hiding Place" and it's stunning reality of the message of forgiveness worked into the framework of the plot of her rare and untouchable example, causes the viewer to thirst for more information on this dreaded and difficult time in history of WWII.

When I learned that Return to the Hiding Place, sequel to her story, was to be released, it was a delight to know that more of the story was to be revealed concerning the underground work of Holocaust and the resistance to the German Occupation.

To see the details of work of her "youth army" led by Hans Poley and Piet Hartog , young and brave men they were, gives this film a position that would challenge any youth of today to question their own maturity level, compelling a natural introspection to do something for a greater purpose and cause. Only a masterfully executed direction and production by the Spencer Team could pull this off in this beautiful and rich example of what few may know took place with the younger generation of the 1940s.

With the reality of Human Trafficking and Bullying that Hitler was notorious for inciting, no one can argue with ANY merit that this work in time wouldn't touch the viewer and place into the mind a self evaluation, for a life impacting "take away".

Dr. Spencer worked DIRECTLY with Hans Poley and heard the story first hand, working diligently to preserve the miraculous details of the truth of what actually took place.

Nothing can quite measure against the passion behind "why" this film was created, and completed for an eternal purpose. Acting, location shots, editing, and final product are par exellence.

Some People Are Reviewing an Unapproved European Version

[tlsnyder42-1 · 9/10 · 3 April 2013]

This movie was previously released in an unapproved edition. The new movie has new scenes and has deleted some unnecessary scenes and subplots, with new editing.

The U.S. version is being released later this year and is very good. IMDb should do a separate page on the U.S. version, but they have been unresponsive to this, which is very strange. People should see the reportedly much improved U.S. version before dissing the movie, and the ratings should be re-set for the U.S. opening, which will then be sent around the world.

RETURN TO THE HIDING PLACE is superbly written. There are several fascinating subplots that move the story forward. There are several romances that break your heart. Within the strong plot structure, the movie highlights true story after true story of people willing to sacrifice their lives for others, even those who don't like them. The direction, cinematography, and music are excellent.

Loved it! Great continuation of the Corrie ten Boom story.

[robinmcelvain · 10/10 · 14 April 2013]

I have not sat through such a riveting drama in a very long time. The movie held my interest throughout the entire viewing. The stories within this story were also very well balanced and heartfelt. Knowing this was based on a true story was captivating. It was very inspirational and the characters were wonderful in their parts. I loved this movie and have and will continue to recommend it be seen when it is released to theaters, which can not be soon enough!! It is a wonderful story of Christ's intervention in very tough times and how all can persevere. A wonderful job of directing and editing, too. Truly a God-made film! Thank you for telling this story!!

great movie, true events, good acting.

[redneckfalcon · 10/10 · 20 July 2012]

okay, so this is an excellent film, well produced, and well acted. Events are 100% true, and accurate. The previous comments which were negative on this video are not only uneducated, but are also untrue and inaccurate. Seek the truth. This film has it. Oh! one more thing, watch this movie without starting in with a biased mindset.. something Hitler said was, "if you tell a lie long enough, and loud enough, the people will believe you." the previous comments against this film were from people trying to do exactly that.

People without any knowledge on this subject (or the willfully ignorant), ought to start reading the history books, searching for truth, finding the truth, and thereby stop making foolish comments and ignorant remarks on films that portray the truth.

War of Resistance

[thebaritone55 · 10/10 · 18 March 2012]

This movie is based on true events in the Netherlands during World War II. What I enjoyed the most about the movie is that Non-Jews showed empathy towards Jews. The Dutch students were prepared to go the extra mile to fight for freedom and equality also taking into consideration their impending fate if they were caught as in the case of Piet one of the heroes of this movie. The Story starts out when all the Jewish professors are expelled from the local University. Hans one of the future Resistance leaders is asked to sign a pact with the Nazis and in exchange his father who was dismissed would be re-employed by the Nazis. He rather opts to help the underground resistance movement where he meets Piet the leader of the student resistance.

Excellent, historical film of the struggle of the peoples occupied by Germans

[adsmithtx · 10/10 · 13 April 2013]

This is a well thought out film of a very difficult time in history. The story is very well written, and includes a lot of detail not normally see in movies. It was presented from a very personal level. Casting and acting is excellent. Each actors character was very well developed and was very well presented. The German soldier was especially well done and very believable. I especially enjoyed the cinematography, being a photographer myself, I could appreciate the challenges that were met in the filming of the movie. A few of the scenes that could have been very grotesque were very well done in the fact that they presented what happened without the very gory details, the lamp shade is an excellent example of this. An excellent film for anyone that has an interest in the details of the Nazi / Jewish conflict in Holland and Cory Tim Boom's youth core should see this film

Return to the Hiding Place is worthy of the investment of your time and money.

[andreakduwe · 10/10 · 13 April 2013]

Return to the Hiding Place is worthy of your investment of time and money if you value excellent cinematography, a true story line, impeccable attention to detail and outstanding acting. Dr. Peter Spencer and crew were thorough in their research as they prepared to bring this story to the big screen. A man of integrity and great faith, Dr. Spencer created a riveting reminder of what Hitler and the Nazi regime accomplished in a very short period of time: the annihilation of millions of Jews,Gypsies, disabled people, the elderly and many other classes of people. This movie inspired me to continue to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, to defend the rights of the poor and needy. My criteria for watching movies these days, the investment of my precious time and emotions? A movie must have a socially redeeming message and inspire me to be a better to person. Return to the Hiding Place met my criteria. I will purchase several copies when available and share with friends and family.

Very touching!

[nursevicki47 · 10/10 · 14 April 2013]

After having the distinct privilege of being cast in the play "The Hiding Place", I had the marvelous opportunity to attend a special viewing of Return To The Hiding Place.

After reading many of the reviews, it saddens me to see anyone rate this anything less that great! The budget that was available for this film was not all that large and to have made this movie on 'what they had', I think they did a fabulous job! The story is just so inspiring, as is The Hiding Place. I hope and pray that this movie will be viewed by anyone who either has or has not heard of the Ten Boom family and their story. It is life changing for sure.

My 13 year old granddaughter attended Return To The Hiding Place with me and was very inspired and now aspires to live her life as the young people in the movie however she is able.

If you get the opportunity to see this movie, by all means, go see it! You will not be disappointed and it will quite possibly change your views of the world. It is definitely a blessing!

Three Cheers and All Thumbs Up

[jr_from_dallas · 10/10 · 13 April 2013]

Rarely are my emotions left so raw. This film left me hoping that the current generation of teenagers and young adults is as committed and dedicated as those in the movie. Their story of bravery and self-sacrifice was so well told, as was the evil of Hitler's regime. As one who began reading about the Nazi atrocities and heroism of the Dutch underground over 40 years ago, I saw and recognized what I already knew to be true. This film was well researched and the events were accurately depicted. I was left inspired both politically and spiritually.

I know many critics will have a bias against films that have an overtly Christian message and will allow that to influence their reviews of this film. That is unfortunate for the quality of this film in terms of cinematography, acting, writing and editing is on par with anything coming out of Hollywood. I was so wishing that I owned a copy so I could watch it again. This will be one of my favorite re-watch movies.

Preview of The Return to The Hiding Place

[chasspauldi · 10/10 · 14 April 2013]

I had the privilege of seeing the Return to the Hiding Place and I believe this to be an outstanding film that should be seen by all. The film accurately shows what can happen when young people set their minds to meet and get involved in the challenge of rescuing innocent people who desperately needed help in a terrible time of war. With as much evidence that has been available to society about the horrors of the second world war, there are those who simply choose to ignore the evidence that has been available for some time now or, are just not informed by the right sources. I do hope that those individuals will come to realize that this really did happen and not just some story someone decided to write about in an effort to shock the viewer. Unfortunately, there are still horrors being subjected to many helpless individuals around the world even as you read this. What a wonderful world it would be if mankind would only practice the simple laws laid down by our Creator. It must start with LOVE for one another and OBEDIENCE to our MASTER in Heaven.

To say thank to the film makers for bringing us this wonderful piece of work to us somehow seems inadequate but, it does come from my humble heart. Thank You And God Bless!

Return to the Hiding Place Review

[halotvandfilm · 10/10 · 12 April 2013]

I was fortunate enough to have seen this excellent film recently at the San Antonio Film Festival where it overwhelmingly took "Best Feature Film" and "Audience Choice Award". The cinematography and acting were the best I have seen in this type of genre. "Return to the Hiding Place" is a truly uplifting, historical film depicting young people who put themselves in harm's way to help others. I enjoyed the dramatic story line, the sprinkles of humor, but most of all the constant refreshing theme of hope. I understand that scenes in this film were actually shot in The Netherlands at the Corrie ten Boom Museum which contributed to the film's authenticity. I highly recommend this film.

Inspiring Tale of Forgotten Youth Resistance

[scott-dix · 9/10 · 17 May 2013]

This is a grand historical tale of courage and how youth helped support the resistance movement. Most citizens sat back and did nothing as the Nazi's fought it out internally with the Resistance. Many young people, made the courageous decision to give their lives for country and the protection of the innocent (and people they did not even know). The Christian undertone is there, but not heavy-handed. Faith drives these people to love their neighbors and lay down their lives for the same. The story and characters are engaging, and the mild humor in various situations is very well done. I hope that such a film can gain a broader release. Critiques that discuss every thread of clothing, accent, or backdrop in terms of authenticity go too far. This is a great film which make a unique contribution to WWII film history. Young people throughout the world need to see this film, and more like it.

Many people had a choice to ignore what was going on and live. But some made a choice to sacrifice everything in order to save those who were perishing.

[robertsfamily94 · 10/10 · 15 April 2013]

UPDATED April 4, 2015

I've now seen RTHP 3 times and have not changed a bit in how wonderful this film is and how I want so much for everyone to see it...not only to support this wonderful work, but also because the content and message is so meaningful and inspirational. Eve Roberts

"Return to the Hiding Place" is set in World War II Holland and is a story that beautifully compliments Corrie ten Boom's "The Hiding Place". It tells the moving story of Corrie's small "army" of untrained teenagers - Hans Poley, Piet Hartog, and their friends. Many scenes are actually filmed in Corrie's home.

If it has been a long time since you have seen a show that is touching, purposeful, full of action, love and sacrifice, then I think you will want to see this. On top of that, it is well written, has marvelous editing, and the film quality is beautiful!

If you are familiar with the life of Corrie ten Boom - and believe in what she and her family stood for - this would be another reason to add this to your "movie watching" list.

This story is a perfect example of what Michael D Evans would call "building a bridge of tangible love and understanding between Christians and Jews" - Corrie ten Boom, her family, Hans Poley, and many underground resistance organization members considered it an honor to stand up for and even die for God's chosen people.

I fully support this film and will recommend to everyone. Although it is PG-13, I believe you might consider allowing your mature student/child to watch. It is both inspirational and educational.

Excellent Film - released in 2013

[lvandekirk · 10/10 · 8 May 2013]

Full disclosure: I am an actor who plays a very small role in this movie. Having read the script and seen several of the locations, I expected not to fully connect emotionally with the film. But I was blown away by the emotional tension that permeates this film from beginning to end. I was absolutely glued to it the entire time, without a thought to the technical aspects. This is rare for me.

The film was officially released in 2013, so I am unsure how the reviews from 2011 could even exist. Whatever earlier version existed, is absolutely NOT this film now! The cinematography is excellent, the look and feel is totally authentic, and the fact that this is a true story makes it that much more heart-wrenching.

The writer/director was personal friends with Hans Poley and was able to use events that Poley did not put in his book. This is also the only film production that was allowed to shoot in the actual Corrie Ten Boom house.

Gripping WW II story

[randall-122-481317 · 9/10 · 21 May 2013]

Return to the Hiding Place is a gripping account of the life of Hans Poley, one of the people who found refuge at the home of Corrie ten Boom who provided safe haven for Jews threatened by Hitler's campaign. Poley was among a group of young Dutch heroes known as Corrie's Teenage Army -- and one of only two to survive the war.

Poley's journal provided the impetus and details for writer/producer Peter Spencer's moving chronicle of the era. As a story, Spencer's superb film has it all -- danger, intrigue, a love story, explosions, heroes, sacrifice, and above all, a testament to the value of every life. As history, Spencer gives viewers an intimate look into the times and into the hardships of a handful of real people who lived the story. It's a remarkable cinematic accomplishment.

Riveting & exciting

[Ted-100 · 10/10 · 18 May 2013]

RETURN TO THE HIDING PLACE opens in 1944 in a concentration camp in Holland. Hans Poley is writing his diary when shots ring out and he sees a handful of five of his friends being executed by Hitler's National Socialist thugs. The rest of the movie flashes back to start in 1940 Holland where Hans is president of the student body at his college. Hans defies the local Nazi commander, gets a false identity, and joins the Dutch Resistance fighting the Nazis. Will he survive?

RETURN TO THE HIDING PLACE is superbly written. There are several fascinating subplots that move the story forward. There are several Christian romances that break your heart. The movie highlights within the strong plot structure true story after true story of people willing to sacrifice their lives for others, even those who don't like them. The Gospel is proclaimed in word and deed throughout the movie. The direction, cinematography, and music are excellent. Caution is advised for some intense bone-chilling violence. RETURN TO THE HIDING PLACE is highly recommended for older children and families. Dr. Ted Baehr, MOVIEGUIDE(r)

Selfless and heroic, but believable examples. Magnificent.

[nathan-keen-689-791327 · 10/10 · 18 May 2013]

Breathtaking, full of suspense, and a magnificent sense of heroism. This is a film that anyone can be really inspired by, to live more selfless lives, and make a difference in the world.

It's too easy to stereotype the Germans, and other players in the World Wars, but the Spencer's don't allow us to do this, displaying real depth to each character, coming from solid research.

The fact that these stories are based on true events makes it believable, and the acting and camera-work is extremely well done, to present a truly glorious and selfless example to us in an age of selfish pleasure.

definitely worth watching

[ahotea07 · 9/10 · 29 July 2013]

The Return to the Hiding Place is not mere entertainment. It is a film that seems to reach across the decades to our time and issue the same challenging question that its characters faced: What would you risk to defend the truth and the innocent? The way this question is answered by the members of the Polish Resistance and what it brings about is sobering, inspiring and something not easily forgotten. The film is based on historical facts, not someone's invented story, and I believe this is where the films impact mainly lies. These people, their choices, and the time the lived in, were real. This film reminds us that each generation has choices to make, for good or for evil, and the consequences are not small. As far as film quality, the main actors are well chosen and very convincing, the visual quality is superb and although the film is long it keeps your attention. Personally I think the film's music could be improved a little, for example some deep bass tones missing in places where it could've been useful and make the scene more vivid and deep. Overall, I highly recommend The Return to The Hiding Place and I really wish they'd release it in theaters so I could take all of my friends to see it!

Really good movie

[nathan155 · 10/10 · 19 September 2011]

I found the movie really good acting was good, one I haven't see in a long time, if their were more movies that showed Christian Values like this movie showed I'd be a lot happier with the movie industry. The camera man moved a little to much and made it slightly distracting but all in all Id say the story was good the acting was decent and values and not having bed room scenes or nudity or other sick stuff makes it a 10 out of 10. I have had me 2 of my sisters and a close friend have all watched it and quite enjoyed it. my friend said "if their were more movies like this It would up lift me to be a better person"

my sisters said" I loved the Christian values and the Bad guy in the movie was the most creepy they have seen"