The Miracle of Zakynthos is a 40-minute film adapted from a stage play. It is a true story that explores the transformative power of empathy and courage during the Holocaust. The film is based on the book Miracle at Zakynthos, the only Greek Jewish Community Saved in its Entirety from Annihilation by Deno Seder. (www.ZakynthosBook.com)
Nearly ninety percent of Greek Jews perished during the Holocaust. However, on the Ionian Island of Zakynthos, the entire Jewish community was saved—thanks to the incredible courage and compassion of the local people. The Miracle of Zakynthos illuminates the humanity of a people who risked their lives and defied the Nazis to save their neighbors.
The film’s mission is
1. to preserve the memory of the Holocaust, and
2. to combat anti-Semitism, racism, and all forms of discrimination.
Greek Jewish survivor testimonies are featured in the film, translated from Greek and Hebrew, along with other relevant archival film and photographic material. The true story of Zakynthos is about moral issues and human behavior. It teaches that there can be no faith, creed, legal or political system that endorses silence and indifference to the pain and suffering of other human beings. That legacy is worth remembering, and the lesson worth teaching.
An educational version of the film called 72 Hours has been produced and distributed to schools across America. It has won accolades at film festivals in thirteen countries. (www.72hoursfilm.com)
Thank you for your interest.
Anita Semjen
Executive Director, Cultural Exchange Foundation and
Executive Producer, 72 HOURS
https://www.cef-us.org/
