A Nazi-era documentary that connects the past to the present: "Occupied City"
In his new documentary "Occupied City", the acclaimed director Steve McQueen brings Amsterdam's Nazi-era history out of the shadows – and connects the past with the present.
In his new documentary film "Occupied City", Steve McQueen brings an impressive and personal reading of the history of the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam, connecting it with the current issues and challenges we face today. The film takes us on a journey from the horrors of the Second World War to the recent years of the pandemic and protests, questioning the role of memory, time, and the future.
McQueen skillfully uses archival footage, and interviews with surviving victims and contemporary witnesses to show how the past constantly permeates the present. The story of the occupation of Amsterdam becomes a metaphor for universal themes such as freedom, justice and facing one's past.
The film is particularly moving in its depiction of the impact of the occupation on the lives of individuals. We meet people who survived the horrors of war and whose lives were forever marked by those experiences. Their stories remind us of the destructive power of totalitarian regimes and the importance of preserving the memory of the victims.
The most persistent, however, are the stories of real resistance. How many Jewish people chose to wield their destinies through suicide? How many Jewish people passed as gentiles to save friends, relatives, and anyone else they could find? How many Dutch citizens hid close neighbors and strangers? At one point, Hyams shares the story of a Jewish man, who, having never flown a seaplane before, drove a German one, and transported his family to the safety of England.
"Occupied City" does not fall behind even in the critical reflection of today. The film points to similarities between the Nazi occupation and current social and political trends, such as tyranny, hate speech. It encourages us to think about how we can prevent the repetition of such horrors in the future. McQueen does not offer simple answers, but he supports us in the hope that we can build a better world. The film ends on an optimistic note, reminding us of the power of the human spirit and resistance.
NEW: A horror film that will keep you on the edge of your seat: “Crypt of Evil”
Post By: Vanessa F.
