Documentary on Auschwitz Survivor and Camp Builder's Son

In the poignant documentary "The Commandant’s Shadow," filmmaker Volker delves into the intricate relationships within a family shaped by the Holocaust. The narrative centers on Maya, a psychotherapist, who reflects on her inherited trauma and her complicated bond with her mother, Anita, a survivor of Auschwitz. Anita, who played the cello in the camp orchestra, describes her childhood home as “not a happy place,” revealing the emotional scars of the silent generation that often compartmentalized their pain. The film juxtaposes the experiences of Maya and her family with those of Hans, who grew up believing his father was a prison warden, unaware of the atrocities occurring just beyond their garden wall. Hans’s sister, Puppi, living in the U.S., grapples with her own memories, referring to their father as “a good man” for his honesty about his past. This stark contrast highlights the varying perceptions of familial legacy and guilt. Volker’s approach combines intimate interviews and observational footage, allowing viewers to “overhear” candid conversations that reveal the psychological complexities of each character. The documentary shifts focus from the parents’ experiences to the emotional journey of their children, culminating in a haunting visit to the concentration camp where they confront their family’s dark history. "The Commandant’s Shadow" resonates deeply, paralleling the emotional weight of films like "Son of Saul" and "Schindler’s List," as it challenges viewers to reflect on the implications of the past on present lives. The film is a powerful exploration of memory, trauma, and the enduring impact of history.