LAST OF THE UNJUST, THE
In The Last of the Unjust, Lanzmann revisits an interview he conducted in 1975 but never made public, with Benjamin Murmelstein who emerged from the war as a controversial figure. As a leading rabbi in Vienna at the start of the war, Murmelstein worked with Adolf Eichmann to arrange for the emigration of 120,000 Jews.
The scheme saved lives and enriched Eichmann. Later the Nazis appointed Murmelstein as a Jewish Elder in Theresienstadt, the Czech camp used as a propaganda showcase. After liberation, he was widely considered a collaborator for his role overseeing the camp and did a stint in a Czech prison before settling in Rome.
NOTE: THIS FILM HAS A SPECIFIC SCREENING ONLY AT THE CLASSIC CINEMA MELBOURNE
with compliments from www.cinephilia.net.au
Feedback/Comments
It's a long movie but well worth the time spent to learn more about this terrible period of human history and to hear first hand how one man dealt with his role as an Elder of the Jewish Council in Theresienstadt, helped others and survived.
FG
Reliving all the terrible times related first by a Frenchman reading and describing places and their meaning during the holocaust years
Then Merlmestekn being interviewed and recounting his responsibility and his insight to interpret Nazi orders to endeavor to save as many lives during those years.
The film was made In Rome where he lived for many years until his death
It's always distressing listening to what occurred at this terrible time. The shocking things that people are capable of is both scary and sad. Murmelstein did whatever he could to survive, unless you are in that situation it's hard to know what you would do. I can understand ambivalent feelings towards him.
Brilliant interviewer, so-so film maker. Well worth seeing
It was a privilege to share in this interview conducted over 30 years after the events and more than 40 years ago now. It certainly provided broader insight into those dreadful events. Thank you