“A powerful example that goodness can transcend racial, religious, and national barriers.” ~San Diego Jewish World

“A must-see for anyone with an interest in WWII or military history.” ~Library Journal

“Ertel’s story speaks to the wonderful potential in humanity for forgiveness and reconciliation. Highly recommended.” ~Educational Media Reviews Online

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.

Joseph Cahn has been producing, writing, and editing broadcast and non-broadcast film and video productions for nearly 30 years. Before starting Victory Films in 2004, he was a producer-editor for several Cleveland-area multimedia firms. Prior to that, he was a producer with NFL Films where he wrote and edited highlight films and segments for HBO, ESPN, and home video.

Filmmaker Joseph Cahn will join us live on screen for Q&A following the screening. The film’s runtime is 104 minutes.