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One Day in Auschwitz
7.6

One Day in Auschwitz (2015)

Feb 01, 2015 45m Documentary

Auschwitz-Birkenau was designed to kill. Four gas chambers murdered thousands at a time, belching out smoke and human ashes. Starvation, thirst, disease, and hard labor reduced the average lifespan to less than three months. More than 1-million people perished in the largest German Nazi concentration and extermination camp. Seventy years after her liberation, Kitty Hart-Moxon makes a final return to Auschwitz-Birkenau to walk among the crumbling memorial with students Natalia and Lydia, who, at 16, are the same age now as she was then. As Kitty tells them her story of daily existence, themes begin to emerge: the ever-present threat of death, resilience, friendship, human strength, resisting the Nazis' constant lethal intent, and living like an animal while still remaining human. Natalia and Lydia ask questions; Kitty provides answers, passing her legacy to the next generation.

Directed by Steve Purcell

Cast

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Kelsey Grammer
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Kelsey Grammer

as Narrator (voice)

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Kitty Hart-Moxon

as Self

Crew

Director
  • Steve Purcell

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Thematic Analysis

One Day in Auschwitz represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Steve Purcell brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of One Day in Auschwitz took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 45 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 125 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
  • The musical score contains over 30 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2015, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While One Day in Auschwitz shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Night and Fog, which focuses more on action than character development, One Day in Auschwitz offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Rosies of the North and Normandy '44: The Battle Beyond D-Day explore similar territory, One Day in Auschwitz stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 1, 2015
  • Runtime: 45m

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