Swing Kids

Last Updated on: October 18th, 2023

Swing Kids (Hollywood Pictures Movie)

“Swing Kids” is a drama film released in 1993, directed by Thomas Carter. The movie stars Robert Sean Leonard as Peter Müller, Christian Bale as Thomas Berger, and Frank Whaley as Arvid.

The story is set in Nazi Germany during the 1930s and follows a group of young teenagers known as “Swing Kids” who are passionate about American swing and jazz music. Despite the regime’s ban on the genre and its association with perceived subversive behavior, the Swing Kids rebel against the strict rules by organizing secret dance parties and practicing their dance moves in hidden locations.

As the Nazi regime becomes more oppressive and the group’s activities draw attention, the teenagers are confronted with the harsh realities of the regime and the dangerous consequences of their actions.

“Swing Kids” is known for its portrayal of the struggle between youthful rebellion and the oppressive regime, as well as the power of music and dance as a form of resistance and expression.

The film received mixed reviews from critics but has become a touchstone for viewers interested in the historical context of Nazi Germany and the ways in which young people resisted the regime’s ideology through music and dance.

“Swing Kids” serves as a touchstone for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally charged drama that explores the challenges faced by young people during a dark period in history and celebrates the importance of music and self-expression in the face of adversity. It remains a compelling and moving film that offers a unique perspective on a lesser-known aspect of Nazi Germany’s cultural repression.



Additional Details

Cast

  • Robert Sean Leonard: Peter Müller
  • Christian Bale: Thomas Berger
  • Frank Whaley: Arvid
  • Barbara Hershey: Frau Müller
  • Tushka Bergen: Evey
  • David Tom: Willi Müller
  • Julia Stemberger: Frau Linge
  • Kenneth Branagh: SS-Sturmbandführer Knopp
  • Noah Wyle: Emil Lutz
  • Jessica Hynes: Helga
  • Martin Clunes: Bandführer
  • Jayce Bartok: Otto

Crew

  • Director: Thomas Carter
  • Producers: Mark Gordon and John Bard Manulis
  • Writer: Jonathan Marc Feldman
  • Music: James Horner

Movie Trailer:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=6dNI9UTThZU



About the Author

Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other sites include DMR and VideoGamesStats.com.