Experience history in a whole new way with Occupied City. This audacious documentary by Steve McQueen takes a unique approach to telling the story of Amsterdam during the Nazi occupation. Instead of relying on archive footage, McQueen uses present-day scenes of the city while a narrator recounts the events that unfolded during those dark years. It’s a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of Amsterdam’s past and its impact on the present.
As you watch the film, you’ll discover the hidden stories behind familiar landmarks. The opulent Concertgebouw, for example, was cherished by the invaders but concealed its Jewish heritage. And a building on another street held a tragic secret, as a Jewish couple chose to end their lives rather than face extermination.
Occupied City weaves together these anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of life under occupation. It’s not a linear narrative, but rather a collection of powerful moments that transport you back in time. Meanwhile, the people of modern-day Amsterdam go about their lives, seemingly unaware of the history beneath their feet.
McQueen, an Oscar-winning filmmaker, has a personal connection to Amsterdam. His wife, Bianca Stigter, wrote a book that inspired the documentary, focusing on the city during the occupation. While Stigter delved into the stories of the deceased, McQueen turned his attention to the living. The film captures both the recent past and the present, showcasing the rise of far-right movements and the fight for democracy and liberal values.
The juxtaposition of contemporary scenes with historical narration creates a powerful and thought-provoking experience. It challenges us to consider how we process information and the impact it has on our understanding of the past. Unlike traditional historical documentaries, Occupied City refuses to lull us into complacency. It demands our attention and leaves a lasting impression.
Running over four hours, including an intermission, this documentary is not for the faint of heart. But its length serves a purpose, illustrating the scale of the occupation and the devastating impact it had on Amsterdam’s Jewish population. It’s a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II.
Occupied City also raises important questions about the rise of nationalism and the potential for history to repeat itself. It reminds us that liberation does not always mean justice for all, as the Netherlands’ colonial past was left largely unexamined after the war.
In a time when the generation with direct experience of World War II is dwindling, we need new ways to preserve memory and prevent the repetition of such horrific crimes. Occupied City is a vital addition to the canon of documentaries that shed light on the genocidal impact of Nazism. It stands alongside films like Shoah and The Sorry and the Pity as a testament to the importance of remembering and learning from history.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness history come alive in Occupied City. This groundbreaking documentary will challenge your perspective and leave a lasting impact.
