‘Never Alone’ Clip as Director Klaus Härö Introduces a Flawed Real-Life Hero With a ‘Big Heart and Big Mouth’ (EXCLUSIVE)

As a film enthusiast with a profound appreciation for historical dramas, I find Klaus Härö‘s latest work, “Never Alone,” to be a captivating and thought-provoking piece. The story of Abraham Stiller, a complex hero in World War II, resonates deeply with me, as it underscores the moral dilemmas faced by individuals during tumultuous times.

Klaus Härö narrates the account of an intricate, real-life hero named Abraham Stiller, in the World War II drama titled “Never Alone.” (Paraphrased)

In Finland, when Jewish refugees looked for sanctuary, Stiller – a well-regarded figure within Finland’s Jewish community – made efforts to prevent some of them from being expelled. However, the director contended after the film’s premiere in Tallinn that Stiller was not without fault.

In situations like these, it’s all about taking a stand: Either face the challenge or flee. It was right there, within his grasp, but perhaps he wasn’t ready to let go? He’s an intriguing protagonist, as he certainly knows how to stir up tension. What drew me in was his immense heart and even bigger mouth,” I shared with EbMaster.

As a movie aficionado, I must confess that my initial excitement for Härö’s latest production was somewhat dampened when I delved deeper into the lesser-known chapters of my nation’s past. Initially allied with Germany against the Soviet Union, this revelation left me feeling disheartened and yearning for a more enlightening cinematic exploration of our complex history.

Growing up, I believed that no Jews were being deported. However, I later discovered that it was only partly accurate – while Finnish Jews weren’t deported, civilians who arrived as refugees were. By the fourth transport, some voices emerged saying, ‘We don’t want a Jewish problem.’ This situation feels eerily reminiscent to me as we navigate our current refugee crisis.

He added: “I kept telling myself that during the Holocaust, we stayed ‘clean.’ We didn’t. With [producer] Ilkka Matila, we started to wonder. Was there anyone who was trying to stop it, who was trying to help? That’s how we found Abraham Stiller.”

The film titled ‘Never Alone,’ made by Matila for MRP Matila Röhr Productions, was previously owned by Menemsha Films. This production was also collaborated on by Samsara Filmproduktion, Taska Film, Penned Pictures, and Hobab. A sneak peek of the movie was shared with EbMaster under an exclusivity agreement.

An outspoken believer himself, Härö didn’t want to shy away from spirituality in the film.

As a devout Christian, I was mindful that I was stepping into another society’s domain, serving as a guest in their home. Yet, if we revisit the 2009 film ‘Letters to Father Jacob,’ one factor that drew me to its story was its authentic portrayal of faith. Throughout our 15-year journey with ‘Never Alone,’ various aspects have evolved, but the scene depicting their Sabbath celebration has remained constant.

Additionally, he drew inspiration not only from the genre of film noir but also delved into a variety of films such as ‘Citizen Kane’ and ‘Sunset Boulevard.’

The movie ‘Never Alone’ centers around mysteries concealed in the shadows, and it was fitting to include dimly lit areas and mist. Watching timeless cinematic masterpieces can be reassuring when resources are scarce and limitations are evident. It seems that they managed to bring their vision to life, even making me tear up at ‘Casablanca’ once more. Perhaps if they could achieve such emotion, then perhaps my own dreams aren’t entirely out of reach, despite the constant struggle in every production.

While the Finnish industry braces for planned budget cuts, Härö refuses to give into pessimism.

As a movie enthusiast, I could easily complain about budget constraints, but instead, I choose to embody the spirit of a magician. It’s all about delivering an elephant on screen without anyone noticing the effort behind it. We’re aware that we’re up against the crème de la crème, but my film school mentor once wisely said, “Don’t make films only for your parents. They’ll watch them because they feel sorry for you.” My ultimate goal is to let the audience forget about me and simply immerse themselves in the story unfolding on screen.

In recent times, there have been “more detailed representations” of the events during the war. However, Härö is yet to observe how local viewers will respond to the admission of Finland’s minor role in this accumulation of evil. Yet, it’s about forgiveness, not retribution, that forms the core of his film.

The situation initially left me feeling deeply sorrowful, but it evolved into a narrative about an individual offering assistance. It’s something we can all empathize with – making promises and then failing to follow through. You might find yourself waking up to 20 unanswered calls, despite your good intentions.

Still, viewers can be “encouraged by someone like Stiller.”

The situation reminded us of a scene in a movie where a reporter tells a character something like, ‘Without your actions, who knows how many others would have suffered?’ We felt compelled to help him, not because he necessarily did the right thing, but because now he’s been forgiven. Forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of my life and beliefs, and extending it can transform you. I don’t believe yoga offers that particular sense of tranquility.

2024-11-19 19:17

‘Never Alone’ Clip as Director Klaus Härö Introduces a Flawed Real-Life Hero With a ‘Big Heart and Big Mouth’ (EXCLUSIVE)

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