Movie spotlight
Die Nacht von Lissabon
After fleeing from Nazi Germany, Josef and Helen Schwarz arrive in Portugal's capital in 1942, where a ship to America awaits them. But on the evening before the ship departs, Helen dies in the hotel. She had concealed the cancer from her husband so as not to burden their last days together. Deeply affected and disillusioned, Josef is drawn to the port of Lisbon. There he meets a penniless exile to whom he is willing to give the ship's tickets and visas, which have now become worthless to him, if he accompanies him that night and listens to his story.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1942 Lisbon, a stateless refugee named Dr. Rosenberg awaits a visa to America, desperate to escape Nazi-occupied Europe. He recounts his harrowing journey to a young German man, detailing his past struggles and the moral compromises he was forced to make to survive. The narrative unfolds as a series of flashbacks, painting a grim picture of desperation and the universal search for freedom amidst the backdrop of war.
Critical Reception
While not widely released internationally, 'Die Nacht von Lissabon' is recognized as a significant German television film exploring the moral complexities of war and refugee experiences. It is appreciated for its thought-provoking narrative and Käutner's direction, though its impact was largely within Germany.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sensitive portrayal of a refugee's plight.
Appreciated for its compelling storytelling and exploration of moral ambiguity during wartime.
Seen as a strong example of German television drama from the era.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews is not readily available for this specific German television film.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the 1962 novel of the same name by Erich Maria Remarque, known for 'All Quiet on the Western Front'.
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