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Reel Theology – “Imaginary Witness” (Oct 19)

The Reel Theology series is presented by Congregation Or Ami as a program that is both intellectual and enjoyable. Lively group discussions that relate the content of the film to current events and Judaic values follow the film led by Rabbi Ahuva Zaches

Please bring a nosh to share for potlucks that always precede the screening. While the film is free and we welcome everyone, donations are accepted.

Imaginary Witness (2004)

When: Sunday, October 19, 6:00pm
Where: Congregation Or Ami 9400 Huguenot Avenue Richmond, Virginia 23235

ImaginaryWitness

“Imaginary Witness” is the riveting story of the American film industry’s complex and fascinating response to the Holocaust. Utilizing carefully selected excerpts from extraordinary and in some cases rarely-seen films, and told through the first-hand accounts of the directors, actors, writers, and producers, the film covers some of Hollywood’s most important movies, including “The Mortal Storm,” “The Great Dictator,” “The Search,” “The Diary of Anne Frank,” “The Pawnbroker,” “Judgment at Nuremberg,” “Sophie’s Choice,” and “Schindler’s List.” The film takes us from the American ambivalence and denial during the heyday of Nazism, through the silence of the post-war years, and into the present day. It asks hard questions: about the uneasy relationship between American popular culture and the Holocaust, about the responsibility of filmmakers in their portrayal of history, and about the power of film itself to affect the way we look at ourselves.