Back to Berlin is a 2018 documentary film that retraces the journey of eleven Israeli motorcyclists who attempt to recreate the historic journey of eleven Maccabi riders in 1932. The 1932 riders traveled on handmade bikes from Tel Aviv to Berlin to take part in a Maccabi meet. The current riders, in 2015, remembered the Jewish athletes and protested against the increasing anti-Semitism in Europe. The documentary is directed by Catherine Lurie and Rick Minnich, and stars Yoran Maron, Dan Marom, and Joseph Gottdenker.
The film begins with the group of Israeli riders embarking on their journey from Tel Aviv, Israel. Riding on BMW motorcycles, they make their way through Israel, Turkey, and Eastern Europe on their way to Berlin, Germany. The riders, all of whom have a personal connection to the Holocaust, are retracing the journey of the Maccabi riders and also getting in touch with their own personal histories.
Back to Berlin is a documentary that examines the past and present of anti-Semitism in Europe. The riders visit various places on their journey that hold historical significance in relation to the Holocaust. They learn about the history of the Holocaust from survivors and historians, and also see the impact of anti-Semitism in modern-day Europe.
Through interviews with the riders and survivors of the Holocaust, the film highlights the importance of remembering the past in order to move forward. The riders visit concentration camps and Jewish ghettos, and the film provides insight into the emotional impact these visits have on the riders.
The film also explores the issues of Israeli identity and Zionism in modern-day Israel. The riders are on a journey to connect with their heritage and history, and the film explores how Jews in Israel view their identity in relation to the Holocaust.
Back to Berlin is a poignant and moving film that explores the impact of the Holocaust on modern-day Israel and Europe. The film highlights the importance of remembrance, and takes the viewer on a journey through history that is both educational and emotional.
The documentary is beautifully shot, and the cinematography captures the diverse landscapes and cultures that the riders encounter on their journey. The film also features a memorable soundtrack that complements the visuals and adds to the emotional impact of the film.
In addition to the interviews with the riders, the film also features interviews with Holocaust survivors, historians, and experts on anti-Semitism. These interviews provide context to the riders' journey and offer insight into the historical significance of the places they visit.
Overall, Back to Berlin is a powerful and poignant film that explores the impact of the Holocaust on modern-day Israel and Europe. The film highlights the importance of remembrance and is a moving tribute to the Jewish athletes who made the historic journey in 1932. It is a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, and the human experience.
Back to Berlin is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.