“The Nazi Officer’s Wife”, is based on the memoirs of Edith Hahn Beer, a Holocaust survivor who led a secret life on Germany during World War II. So many stories have come out of this period in history, and to date none have been any less than forceful. What the Jewish people suffered at the hands of the Nazi’s is amongst mankind’s worst atrocities and should never be forgotten. This is yet another story of survival and one that should be told. As a young Jewish woman, Edith saw her entire family sent to death camps, and she herself was sent to a forced labor camp. Making a difficult decision to survive at any cost, she was able to make herself disappear and hid her Jewish heritage, re-emerging as Grete Denner. She went on to marry a Nazi Officer, who kept her secret. All these years, she kept her story a secret due to the guilt she felt over the fact that so many lives had been lost, while living a lie saved hers. “The Nazi Officer’s Wife” is a look at the events of the Holocaust through a perspective never before captured on film. We are given a look at both sides of the fence, as the story of Edith’s husband, Werner Vetter is as interesting as hers.

I am always captivated by stories like these. One can almost understand her guilt, but can appreciate her desire to live, doing what no one else had the wherewithal to do in order to do so. “The Nazi Officer’s Wife” is an amazing documentary, told through newsreels and vintage films. But even more so fascinating are the interviews with Edith and her daughter Angela. Added to this is the wonderful narration by Susan Sarandon, along with selected readings from Edith’s autobiography by Julia Ormand.

The documentary was first featured last month on the Arts & Entertainment network, and is now available on DVD. I don’t feel I can adequately describe what a compelling documentary “The Nazi Officer’s Wife” is. The amount of information offered is staggering, in spite of the lack of any extra features. And even with all we learn from the film, I wanted to know more, so I’m adding the book to my fall reading list.

“The Nazi Officer’s Wife” is a film that should be seen by everyone with an interest in history, as well as those with only a passing interest. Like many of the acts of attempted genocide, both past and present, the Holocaust that took place during World War II is one that should never be forgotten and any new light that can be shed on it is welcome. To those who say, “It never happened…” I say shame on you.

Directed by: Liz Garbus
Specifications: 1.33:1 Standard Fullscreen Color/Black & White, Dolby Digital Stereo
Studio: A&E Home Video
Release Date: 7/29/2003
Region 1
MPAA Rating: NR
Website

We'll give Nazi Officer's Wife a B.