New Film The Optimist Honors Auschwitz Survivor's Unbreakable Spirit
A new film about Holocaust survivor Herbert Heller is coming to cinemas this month. The Optimist tells the true story of Heller's escape from Auschwitz and his later life in America. Directed by Sarah Thomas, the movie will be released nationwide on March 11 and March 15.
Thomas first learned about Herbert Heller in 2014. She grew close to him over the years and helped him share his experiences with students. His story inspired her to write The Optimist, a script she worked on for three years before pausing it during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Heller escaped Auschwitz as a teenager and later hid with a Catholic family who protected him. After the war, he moved to the United States, where he built a successful life. Yet he carried the trauma of his past, including nightmares of Josef Mengele, the infamous 'angel of death' from the camp. The film follows an elderly Heller (played by Stephen Lang) as he bonds with a troubled teenager named Abby (Elsie Fisher). Their conversations about suffering, purpose, and human connection change both their lives. Thomas, who faced her own health crisis—diagnosed with tumours and given a 50% survival chance—felt driven to finish the project. *The Optimist* is partnering with KAVOD SHEF and Bring Change to Mind for awareness campaigns. A portion of the proceeds will support these organisations and their causes.
The film arrives in theatres on March 11 and March 15. It highlights Heller's resilience and the impact of his story on others. Viewers will also contribute to mental health and Holocaust education efforts through the film's charity partnerships.
