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Heaven in Auschwitz

Heaven in Auschwitz (2016)

Apr 21, 2016 1h 14m Drama Documentary

A documentary film that tells the fascinating and incredible story of 13 Jewish survivors of the Holocaust in former Czechoslovakia, during the II World War. These men and women, that back then were children, found a legendary Jewish-German character named Fredy Hirsch, who changed their lives forever. The work describes the terrible living conditions in Terezin Ghetto and; on the other hand, the approach to culture and art behind the walls of the concentration camp. Up to this moment, everything develops as a known story, but by the end of 1943 there is an unexpected turn when these children are deported together with their families to the extermination camp in Auschwitz-Birkenau. And there, in the middle of hell, they lived in.

Directed by Aaron Cohen

Cast

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Dinah Gottliebova

as

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Eva Gross

as

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Dita Krause

as

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Zuzana Růžičková

as

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Bedrich Steiner

as

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Fredy Hirsch

as archive

Crew

Director
  • Aaron Cohen
Writer
  • Sabina Berman
Producer
  • Esther Cohen

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Heaven in Auschwitz examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Aaron Cohen 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Heaven in Auschwitz took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 139 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 63 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Heaven 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 Revenge: Our Dad the Nazi Killer, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Heaven in Auschwitz offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Más allá de la alambrada: la memoria del horror and Voices of Auschwitz explore similar territory, Heaven in Auschwitz stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: April 21, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 14m

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