Ella Blumenthal is one of the oldest living survivors of the Holocaust. Despite living through one of history's darkest chapters, she brings a joy to life that few can match. On her 98th birthday, however, Ella reveals to close friends and family profound memories of her incredible survival in a way she has never done before.

Award-winning documentary I Am Here (2021) celebrates Ella's remarkable life and her magnetic personality and spirit that have remained undimmed.

South African filmmaker Jordi Sank, the director and co-producer of I Am Here, relays how he met this remarkable woman and decided to bring her incredible life story to the screen. In the process Jordi's film provides us with a first-hand account of the Holocaust.

“People need to learn from history so that we can have a peaceful future that’s worth living.” - Jordy Sank

Watch the full episode at https://www.alamopictures.co.uk/podcast/i-am-here/

Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introducing the guest and the synopsis of I Am Here. 03:10 - How Jordy met Ella.
04:30 - The unique conversations that came out on Ella’s 98th birthday.
05:50 - Ella’s secret to life and happiness.
07:30 - The importance of faith in her life.
09:46 - How she responds to anti-semitism.
12:18 - The challenges of getting Ella involved in the film.
14:34 - How they chose the style of animation for the film.
17:16 - Ella’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
18:24 - The importance of getting a first-hand account of the Holocaust.
20:15 - The next project Jordy has been working on.

Resources: I Am Here (2021)
The MovieMaker Magazine
Innersound Audio
Alamo Pictures

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