The Last Days: Steven Spielberg and Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation

by Steven Spielberg, Geoffery Clifford (Photographer), David Cesarani (Introduction)

The devastation of Hungarian Jewry was among the worst atrocities of World War II, encompassing the murder of hundreds of thousands of men, women and children in the final months of the war.

Facing defeat, Hitler and his allies brought the Holocaust to Hungary with unprecedented speed and barbarity. The Hungarian Jewish population was rounded up and deported to concentration camps in just 54 days. 437,402 Jews. 148 trains. Auschwitz.

The German plan for annihilation of the Jews-called the 'Final Solution'-set the goal that not a single survivor would be left to bear witness to the events. Fifty years later, Steven Spielberg established Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation to record the testimony of as many survivors as possible. From the ashes of the Holocaust these voices now emerge to share their stories and to represent the nearly six million Jews who did not survive.

Survivors and liberators share what they experienced in gripping, firsthand testimony. Archival photographs document history, and powerful color images chronicle the survivors' emotional return to the places of their homes unseen for fifty years to the ghettos and concentration camps of their imprisonment. Top scholars have been brought together to share their insights into one of humanity's darkest chapters. These elements are poignantly synthesized in The Last Days as a warning for all mankind.

Genres: Holocaust, Nonfiction, History

240 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1999

About the author

Steven Allan Spielberg KBE is an American film director, producer and screenwriter. Spielberg is a three-time Academy Award winner and is the highest grossing filmmaker of all time; his films having made nearly $8 billion internationally. Forbes magazine places Spielberg's net worth at $3 billion. As of 2006, Premiere listed him as the most powerful and influential figure in the motion picture industry. Time listed him as one of the 100 Greatest People of the Century. And at the end of the twentieth century, Life named him the most influential person of his generation. In a career that spans almost four decades, Spielberg's films have touched many themes and genres. During the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, three of his films, Jaws, E.T., and Jurassic Park became the highest grossing films for their time. During his early years as a director, his sci-fi and adventure films were often seen as the archetype of modern Hollywood blockbuster filmmaking. In later years, his movies began addressing such historical issues as the Holocaust, slavery, war, and terrorism.

Reviews

[N · Rating 1 out of 5]

If anyone is under any doubt that this film is full of lies and deceit, then I challenge anyone reading this to watch the youtube documentary in full called The Last Days Of The Big Lie.

[Anuj Dubey · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Last Days" is a powerful documentary film produced by Steven Spielberg and the Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation, offering a poignant and harrowing exploration of the Holocaust through the firsthand testimonies of survivors. Released in 1998, the film serves as a vital historical document and a testament to the resilience and courage of those who endured one of the darkest chapters in human history.

What sets "The Last Days" apart is its focus on individual stories, giving voice to survivors from various backgrounds and experiences. Through their personal accounts, viewers gain insight into the horror and trauma of the Holocaust, as well as the strength and determination it took to survive. From the ghettos of Eastern Europe to the death camps of Auschwitz and Dachau, each survivor's journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face of unspeakable atrocities.

The film also benefits from Spielberg's skillful direction and storytelling prowess. Through a combination of archival footage, photographs, and reenactments, he creates a vivid and immersive narrative that transports viewers back to the wartime era. The use of music and sound design further enhances the emotional impact, evoking a sense of empathy and solidarity with the survivors and their families.

Moreover, "The Last Days" serves as a vital educational tool, ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten or ignored. By preserving the testimonies of survivors for future generations, the film helps to combat Holocaust denial and revisionism, fostering a deeper understanding of the human cost of hatred and intolerance.

At its core, "The Last Days" is a tribute to the resilience and humanity of those who survived the Holocaust, as well as a solemn reminder of the need to confront and combat injustice wherever it may arise. Through its powerful storytelling and compelling testimonials, the film leaves a lasting impression on viewers, urging them to bear witness to the past and work towards a more just and compassionate future.

In conclusion, "The Last Days" is a poignant and essential film that sheds light on one of the darkest periods in human history. By amplifying the voices of survivors, Steven Spielberg and the Survivors of the Shoah Visual History Foundation have created a compelling and deeply affecting tribute to the indomitable human spirit in the face of unimaginable suffering.

[P.S. Winn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The words and illustrations are touching, horrific and a must read. Survivors and those who helped them share the experiences of a horrific time in history. This is a compelling read and one that is so important so we never forget.

[Richard Smith · Rating 1 out of 5]

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