I AM HERE
South Africa, 2020, 73 minutes, Colour.
Directed by Jordy Sank.
The I of the title is a vivacious elderly lady, Ella Blumenthal. This is her story.
At the outset, this reviewer would state that this is a film that should be seen by everyone. For older audiences, it evokes memories of the 20th century past, especially World War II, the Jews in the Holocaust, the aftermath. For those of the next generations, it is acknowledgement of the past and learning from the past. And, it should be recommended for viewing for secondary school students, only 73 minutes of viewing, time for reflection and conversation, a valuable emotional and intellectual experience – that such experiences should not be lost, not forgotten.
Early in the film, Ella is celebrating her 98th birthday, surrounded by family. She takes the opportunity to open up about her past life, more than she had in the past. Ella knows how to tell a good story, to involve her audience, to lead them on, wanting to know more. So, at age 98, at the party and afterwards, her family records her memories, her reminiscences, her regrets, her joys.
But the filmmakers have added a wonderful extra dimension. So much of Ella’s young life, separation from family, the years in the concentration camps, the aftermath, her engagement, wedding, family, all told via animation. So, the real Ella speaking while we are moved, excited, saddened, joyful with Ella and her niece, Rachel, through these animated characters.
And, as happened with the animation/documentary/portrait of the Afghan refugee, Amin, in Flee, footage is included, this time from World War II, from the camps, photos, are inserted within our looking and listening with Ella and within the animation. A very effective cumulative impact, especially in about 70 minutes.
Ella had a happy life after the liberation from the camps, finding her loving life, marriage, moving to Johannesburg – but finding that her husband’s family did not want the war experiences to be talked about, Ella then becoming accustomed to keep these memories to herself, finally released at age 98.
There is no mention of apartheid or Ella’s experiences living in South Africa for so long – but, she is a devout woman, continually referencing God, faith and prayer, and a firm belief in the equality of every human being no matter what race or colour.
Fine and moving documentary-making. And we are glad to have met Ella, not only to make her acquaintance, but to have the privilege of hearing her confidences.
