The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel - Film Screening and Director Discussion

In the midst of great evil, it is the courageous man or woman who refuses to succumb, and Peter Ertel was one such man. Forced to serve in the German army despite his open contempt for the Nazis and his refusal to kill the enemy, Ertel would not only miraculously survive World War II but would also be regarded as family by his Jewish employers. THE UNIMAGINABLE JOURNEY OF PETER ERTEL is a riveting, award-winning account of the life of a man who defied insurmountable odds in an unforgiving environment and who later found peace in America. This film combines archive footage – much of which has never before been shown – with Ertel’s own brave telling of his extraordinary odyssey. A true story so bold, brave, and beautiful it will restore your faith that humanity can survive even the darkest of days. Winner of the "David Ponce Best of the Fest Award" at the 2017 Chagrin Documentary Film Festival, the "Founders' Choice Award" at the 2016 G.I. Film Festival, and the "Local Heroes Competition" at the 2017 Cleveland International Film Festival. Students will first screen the 104-minute film. Following a short break, students will then have an opportunity to have a conversation with the director via Zoom.