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Chris Gueffroy, was the last person to be shot dead at the Berlin Wall and a new short film called “Whispers of Freedom” portrays his story.
In a world where history can often fade into obscurity, the story of Chris Gueffroy stands out as a poignant reminder of the human cost of political division. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the making of a film dedicated to Chris, the last person to be shot dead escaping over the Berlin Wall. This episode explores not only the tragic events surrounding Chris’s life but also the broader implications of collective memory and historical storytelling.
The film’s Director Brandon Ashplant reflects on how the memories of the Cold War era are fading among younger generations. As the last survivors of that tumultuous time pass away, the urgency to preserve these stories becomes ever more critical. The filmmakers, led by Brandon, sought to bring Chris’s story to life, focusing on the emotional resonance that such narratives can evoke. They aimed to create a film that does justice to the real-life events while also engaging a modern audience.
The podcast features insights from the cast, including Cameron Ashplant and Wendy Makkena, who portray Chris and his mother, Karin. Both actors share their experiences preparing for their roles, immersing themselves in the culture, music, and atmosphere of East Germany during the 1980s. Cameron mentions how listening to music from that era helped him understand the mindset of his character, while Wendy reflects on her emotional connection to the story, drawing from her family history.
A significant aspect of the filmmaking process involved ensuring historical accuracy. The team reached out to various institutions, including the Berlin Wall Foundation and the DDR Museum, to gather authentic materials and insights. This dedication to authenticity not only enhances the film’s credibility but also serves to educate viewers about a time that should not be forgotten.
As the film prepares for its debut on the international festival circuit, the podcast serves as a reminder of the importance of telling these stories. With a dedication to the victims of the Berlin Wall, the filmmakers hope to ensure that Chris Gueffroy’s story—and the stories of many others like him—will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
Where can I see the film?
There’s been various updates since we recorded. The trailer has been released and is available on the Golden Goat Films Facebook and Instagram pages (@goldengoatfilms). The World Premier is at the Sunderland Shorts Film Festival at 18:00 on Friday 16th May at the Omniplex, Sunderland. Cast and crew in attendance. So if you are in the area, do join them.
The Canadian premiere is in September at Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) – which makes the film Canadian Screen Award Qualifying, opening up its route to the Academy Awards (if we’re lucky enough!)
The Guernsey premier is on September 12th and the Berlin premiere is on October 2nd at the DDR Museum. The film will thereafter live at the museum, available for international tourists to watch on an ongoing basis.
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