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Schindler's List

Schindler's List is a 1993 American historical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Schindler's List is a 1993 American historical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg. Based on Thomas Keneally's novel Schindler's Ark, it depicts Oskar Schindler's efforts to save more than 1,000 Jews during the Holocaust. The film is widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed films about the Holocaust.

Plot and historical basis

The film dramatizes Oskar Schindler's transformation from profit-seeking factory owner to rescuer of Jewish workers in Nazi-occupied Poland. It is based on historical events and Keneally's book Schindler's Ark.

Production

Steven Spielberg directed the film, with a screenplay by Steven Zaillian. The movie is notable for its black-and-white cinematography and its serious, restrained style.

Reception and awards

Schindler's List received widespread critical acclaim and major awards recognition. It won seven Academy Awards and several other major industry honors.

Historical impact

The film is widely credited with shaping public understanding of the Holocaust, especially among American audiences. It remains a reference point in both film studies and Holocaust education.

Key facts

  • The film is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved Jewish workers during the Holocaust.
  • It was released in 1993 and directed by Steven Spielberg.
  • Liam Neeson plays Oskar Schindler, with Ralph Fiennes as Amon Göth and Ben Kingsley as Itzhak Stern.
  • The screenplay was written by Steven Zaillian and adapted from Thomas Keneally's Schindler's Ark.
  • The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
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Canadian context

The film is relevant to Canadian readers as a major Holocaust drama widely studied and discussed in English-language film and history education in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Is Schindler's List based on a true story?
Yes. It is based on the real-life actions of Oskar Schindler during the Holocaust.
Who directed Schindler's List?
Steven Spielberg directed the film.
Who stars in Schindler's List?
The film stars Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, and Ben Kingsley.
What book is Schindler's List based on?
It is adapted from Thomas Keneally's Schindler's Ark.
How many Academy Awards did it win?
It won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Schindlers-List
    Supports: Director, release year, cast, screenplay, source novel, historical basis, and awards.
  2. History Extra — https://www.historyextra.com/period/second-world-war/schindlers-list-true-story/
    Supports: True-story basis, release year, black-and-white presentation, and historical context.
  3. GradeSaver — https://www.gradesaver.com/schindlers-list
    Supports: Release year, cast, awards, box office, and adapted-from information.
  4. Smithsonian Magazine — https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/how-schindlers-list-transformed-americans-understanding-of-the-holocaust-180983408/
    Supports: Historical basis, Oskar Schindler's rescue of more than 1,000 Jews, and the film's cultural impact.
  5. Reform Judaism — https://www.reformjudaism.org/schindlers-list-separating-truth-fiction
    Supports: Premiere year and contextual information about the source material and recognition of the Schindlers.