Greetings again from the darkness. The best documentaries provide both (or more) sides of the story, show the conflict, allow the emotions to speak and inspire the viewer to decide or research further. Director Gaylen Ross does just that with this terrifying tale of truth ... a truth left open to interpretation.
Rezso Kasztner arranged for the rescue of 1684 Jews. That much is known. The bone chilling debates occur when one views him as a hero and the other views him as a traitor - a collaborator with the Nazi's (specifically Adolph Eichmann). Kasztner has been referred to as the Jewish Schindler, but also as the man who sold his soul to the devil.
Ms. Ross provides us access to many sources including his probable assassin! When this admitted killer sits down with Kasztner's family, it proves the adage that truth is stranger than fiction. His family, especially his daughter, are on a mission to see him portrayed as the hero they see. The problem is that many, including some of those he rescued, see him as a Nazi collaborator and are unable to forgive.
So many fine moments and interviews in this one that it actually left me wanting more. Somehow we never really got to know Kasztner as a man, but I do walk away admiring his daughter and granddaughter for working to get their side of the story out, and even more amazingly, having a touch of pity for the assassin.
Rezso Kasztner arranged for the rescue of 1684 Jews. That much is known. The bone chilling debates occur when one views him as a hero and the other views him as a traitor - a collaborator with the Nazi's (specifically Adolph Eichmann). Kasztner has been referred to as the Jewish Schindler, but also as the man who sold his soul to the devil.
Ms. Ross provides us access to many sources including his probable assassin! When this admitted killer sits down with Kasztner's family, it proves the adage that truth is stranger than fiction. His family, especially his daughter, are on a mission to see him portrayed as the hero they see. The problem is that many, including some of those he rescued, see him as a Nazi collaborator and are unable to forgive.
So many fine moments and interviews in this one that it actually left me wanting more. Somehow we never really got to know Kasztner as a man, but I do walk away admiring his daughter and granddaughter for working to get their side of the story out, and even more amazingly, having a touch of pity for the assassin.
