When a nine-year-old boy is captured by the Nazis in 1940s Hungary, his older sister risks her life to save him.

Interview with Producer/Director/Editor Mark Hellinger

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

Elsa and Ervin is a personal story about how my grandmother saved her younger brother from the Nazis in 1940s Hungary. Having narrowly escaped the Nazis in Czechoslovakia, my great uncle Ervin found himself alone in an orphanage in Hungary. When his older sister hears he is in danger she risks her life to save his. Like so many survivors before him, Ervin hadn’t spoken about the events surrounding his escape from Hungary. Following my grandmother’s passing, he finally agreed to be interviewed to honour his sister, and her bravery and ensure this remarkable story of survival during World War II was preserved for future generations.

Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?

Elsa and Ervin tells a story of love, sacrifice, and resilience between two siblings caught up in the Second World War. It transcends mere survival and speaks to the power and bravery of the human spirit in the darkest of times. Some 80 years later, these memories are as raw as ever for the two siblings and the documentary captures the deep and unending emotional and psychological toll of war. Through their remarkable journey, Elsa and Ervin represent the anguish and trauma of countless children caught in the throes of war ever since. It is a powerful testimony for future generations, and a reminder to seek peace at every possible chance.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

The theme of family is very important as the bond between a sister and her brother. Whatever the sacrifice, whatever the circumstance, family is there for each other.

How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?

The initial concept was based on Elsa Hellinger's book Lucky, Again and Again: A Survivor from Michalovce. I began by adapting key events and narratives from the book into a treatment. As I interviewed Elsa and Ervin, their firsthand accounts added depth and new dimensions to the story. Hearing their personal reflections and emotional experiences allowed me to refine the narrative, focusing more on their internal struggles and triumphs. Their input was crucial in shaping the story, highlighting moments that might not have been fully captured in the book. During editing, I discovered new ways to tell the story more effectively. The incorporation of archival footage also evolved as I found new material that better illustrated the historical backdrop and complemented the siblings’ personal stories.

What type of feedback have you received so far?

The feedback so far has been very positive. Family members were profoundly moved by the documentary. Watching the film brought back a flood of memories and emotions, allowing them to relive and better understand the experiences that shaped Elsa and Ervin’s lives. Many of them expressed how deeply touched they were by the siblings' journey and the resilience they exhibited.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

The feedback has made me pleased to make the documentary. As family members were happy this story has been told. These stories need to be captured for future generations. As we can always learn from the past. Whilst the feedback has been very positive, the film has just been shown to family and friends, so I’m looking forward to the upcoming premiere screening as part of the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival screening on Saturday, 27 Jul 2024.

What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?

I want to draw attention to my film Elsa and Ervin so people can come to the premiere at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival on Saturday, 27 Jul 2024 as part of the shorts session 4. At a minimum, it would be great if people could watch the trailer of the film to get more of an understanding of the film.

Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?

I’d love film festival directors to see this to consider Elsa and Ervin to be screened at their festivals. I’d also love more attention to come to this story so the story can be shared wide and far.

What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?

There is a lot of division in the world right now. My hope is that this documentary fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging viewers to reflect on the impact of war on individuals and families. It should highlight the human cost of conflict and the importance of seeking peace. Additionally, I want the film to inspire viewers to take action in their communities, whether through supporting Holocaust remembrance initiatives, advocating for peace for all people of all nationalities, or simply sharing the lessons learned from Elsa and Ervin’s story.

What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?

Personal stories like those of Elsa and Ervin offer a unique and intimate perspective on historical events, providing insights into the human experiences behind the facts and figures. While broader historical accounts offer valuable context and analysis, individual narratives add depth and emotional resonance, allowing us to connect with the past on a personal level. By preserving and sharing these stories, we honour the memories of those who lived through these events and ensure that their experiences are not forgotten. These narratives humanise history, making it more relatable and compelling, and reminding us of the enduring impact of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

Would you like to add anything else?

Personal stories like Elsa and Ervin's serve as a reminder of the diverse experiences within historical events. By listening to and amplifying these voices, we gain a deeper understanding of the past and a greater appreciation for the toll it took,and the resilience and courage of those who lived through it.

What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?

I'm currently working on an exciting music documentary about a popular local band. We're diving into their history, interviewing band members, and uncovering behind-the-scenes stories. Stay tuned for updates as we bring this project to life. It's going to be an amazing journey!

Interview: June 2024

We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela

Elsa and Ervin

When a nine-year-old boy is captured by the Nazis in 1940s Hungary, his older sister risks her life to save him.

Length: 17:29

Director: Mark Hellinger

Producer: Mark Hellinger

Writer: Mark Hellinger

About the writer, director and producer:

MARK HELLINGER is a Melbourne-based filmmaker who has directed and produced several award-winning internationally and locally broadcast films. Mark’s work seeks social justice and explores topics such as how sport and art can help people find their way. Mark has produced documentaries broadcast on the ABC in Australia, and TG4 in Ireland. These films explore stories such as a football team with intellectual disabilities, how creating art helps people with histories of substance abuse, and how basketball can bring hope and inspire young Sudanese immigrants.

Key cast: Elsa Hellinger, Ervin Meisels

Looking for: film festival directors, journalists

Facebook: Mark Hellinger - Filmmaker

Twitter: @m_h1234

Instagram: @hproductions_au

Hashtags used: #Elsa and Ervin #Elsa&Ervin

Website: H Productions

Other: YouTube, IMDb

Where can I watch it next and in the coming month?

Elsa and Ervin will be premiering at Melbourne Documentary Film Festival Saturday, 27 Jul 2024.